Whimsy
By Susann Brox Nilsen
Published in Issue 139, July 2025
A vibrant, one-of-a-kind plush creature created by Norway artist Susann Brox Nilsen, featuring mismatched button eyes, playful embroidery, and bold patchwork textures. Highlighted in Birdy Magazine, this eccentric handmade monster doll bursts with color, charm, and personality – a true example of art toy whimsy and imaginative textile design.
Susann Brox Nilsen is a selftaught artist based in Tromsø, Norway. Also goes by the name Susi the weird and wonderful.
“I love to hunt for treasures in flea markets and old houses! I find inspiration in oddities and curiosities such as steampunk, circus life (especially freakshows) and strange movies.
As a child I had a very lively imagination, drawing was my favorite thing to do. I was also very drawn to the more spooky and surreal. I used to write lots of books and stories as a teenager. My mom bought me a typewriter I became completely obsessed with.
I paint and sew 50/50, mixed media is my preferred medium. A typical feature in my art is strange proportions and big eyes. Not to forget: bold colors! I also use lots of metaphors, it’s a fun addition and engages the viewer. There’s a clear red thread between my canvas and fiber creatures!
My sewing journey started when I was patching up my son’s worn out teddybear. The materials I had available was in different colors and texture, so it ended up as a fun scrap project. I completely fell in love with the imperfect style! My dolls are definitely a mix of creepy-cute, which I think is the perfect combo! I feel that my dolls are more than just a fun apprearance. They symbolize the beauty of being different.”
Head to her Website to see more work and snag one of her on-of-a-kind plushes. Follow her on Instagram to stay up-to-date with her art.
This is Susann’s debut with Birdy. Keep your eyes peeled for more work by this talented artist. Head to our Explore section to see more by our creative contributors.