Tree of Life Wall Decor
This symbol is timeless and has captured the fascination of many in the world. Early on I knew I had to make the Tree of Life wall decor. I often use it within different pieces in different ways.
Depending on where you come from its meaning will vary somewhat. Each culture has placed its twists and turns along the roots and branches of definition.
Most often it is used as a symbol of personal growth. Symbolically as roots deepen and the branches continue to grow it is compared to life. We are to deepen ourselves internally as well as reaching out to the world around us.
Typically its references are symbolic in nature rather than a literal tree. Yet this is not true of all cultures. In Christianity it is spoken of as a literal tree which exists. The fruit of the tree would grant an individual immortality.
No matter how a culture may define its meaning there is no doubt the Tree of Life has become an icon. Most notably the more beautiful representations from the Celtic culture. The nature of how a tree is a natural element within our environment and the Celt knots working with design cultivates a seamless fit.
While its representation by the Celts may not be accurate according to many cultures there is no doubt it is beautiful. No matter the accuracy or differences in meaning the artwork can translate across borders and culture to still define a meaning to that individual.
Tree of Life Design in Wood Art
My favorite design work comes with carving the Tree of Life into Ambrosia Maple. The wood of the Ambrosia itself gives a unique appearance to the artwork. The wood carving and finishing of the work can take days to complete. The end result is beautiful and fitting to the meaning of the tree.
I have come to love two versions of the Tree of Life. Each is unique in design. Each culturally has its own definition. Yet when used in a wood carving it brings new life to the work. Placing the tree onto its natural element and the Ambrosia grain colors bring a new life into the timeless design.
Wood panel art is the best way I have found to display the work. It allows for its definition to be brought out boldly allowing the wood grain to be displayed. Stain is always used to accent and compliment the pieces. Never is paint used on any wall art piece of this nature.
The wood carving is 2.5d in design. In other words it is a relief work where the tree stands out from the wood panel. You can run your fingers across the tree to feel it. Compare this to an engraving where a cut simply engraves into the wood and there is no definition. Engraving would not be suitable for a work of this nature.
On smaller works such as my box art it still displays beautifully. Yet smaller versions cannot compare to the larger wall art pieces. A smaller work does not give enough room for the branches or roots to capture the full beauty of the wood. Nevertheless both are amazing works.
Many Applications in Home Decor
The larger wall pieces can be used in alternative ways than wall artwork. As it is panel art it can be also placed within other wood works as an art inlay. Naturally the table, wall, or other furniture would need to be cut to accept the Tree of Life as an inlay.
If one does not want the work hanging from a wall setting it into shiplap would be unique. The artwork would be flush with the wall yet add beauty to the space. This is one of those pieces which could be used within virtually any situation.
There are a few creations I love to make. Some I design and make for fun. Others may be by request that have little meaning to me personally. Yet the Tree of Life is definitely one I love to make. It has a special meaning to me and deserves the best wood canvas with the effort to allow it to display as beautifully as possible.
While my artwork and representation of the Tree of Life may fall short in capturing the real thing for us in this world it still captures its meaning. There is no doubt that this artwork will bring life into any space within a home.