Sculpting A Meaningful Life

Susana Cerruti always knew she was going to be a sculptor. Growing up in Argentina, she recalls gazing at the clouds and being inspired to one day create that same kind of beauty.

Cerruti has made good on that promise. As a 47-year resident of Garden City, she studied at Pratt and the Metropolitan Museum of Art but one conversation with her reveals she is her own artist buoyed by what moves her.

Cerruti has shared her talent as an ardent volunteer with AHRC, The Garden City Historical Society (GCHS) and as an advocate of the arts. She has also generously donated her work, including a sculpture on exhibit at village hall she created in memory of 9/11.

Lithesome and delicate, Cerruti’s medium is incredulous. She crafts her sculptures from stone, wood, granite and marble. They are a form of expression and out of these materials Cerruti creates movement, light and feelings.

Many of the sculptures in her personal collection are a tribute to milestones in her life such as the birth of her three children, grandchildren and her daughter’s wedding.

She considers herself a “supporter of the arts and special people.” She has been a volunteer with The Garden City Auxiliary of AHRC for more than 30 years and has served as treasurer for the last 16. 

The birth of her son, Georgie, who lives in an AHRC group home, was her original impetus to get involved with the agency, which, in partnership with family members, is committed to enriching the lives of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

“She’s gracious and a pleasure to work with and puts her heart and soul into everything she does,” says Mary Jane Caldwell of the historical society. “She has worked hard as a judge in our annual art contest and has showcased her sculptures in our professional art show.” 

As a volunteer and artist, Cerruti found her calling working with AHRC, whose guiding principles include fostering talent and potential.

“My son is so happy in his home,” shared Cerruti. “He has friends and a good life, what every parent wants for their child.”

Cerruti created sculptures after the birth of each of her children. When Georgie was born, she was full of worry about the potential for his life. Georgie's sculpture depicts a woman with hands held out to the sky - creating a mix of vulnerability and wonder.

She has left no stone unturned in her pursuit to create a meaningful life for her son and for the lives of countless others. Whether it’s pain or joy, Cerruti continues to employ her art as a powerful form of expression - for moments when words simply fall short.