Trees hold a multiplicity of mythic and symbolic qualities. 
I love trees .... and have just started this small collection of mixed media mini canvases with trees.The deep-rooted meaning of trees is apparent in common and can be found throughout history, art, religion and various spiritual practices.
Each tree holds their own symbolism, for example my favorite is the Olive tree... of course (!)- because our last name "Olivos" which means Olive trees in Spanish.... but also because they are quite, quite beautiful with their complex trunks and root systems, and their bounty of Olives and delicate leaves. I love them!
Olive trees symbolize peace amongst other things:
"This tree possess a wealth of symbolism - peace, fruitfulness, purification, strength, victory and reward. In Ancient Greece the tree was sacred to Athene and the first olive, which sprang from her quarrel with Poseidon, was preserved as a treasure behind the Erechtheum. In Jewish and Christian tradition, the olive is a symbol of peace and it was an olive-branch which the dove brought back to Noah when the Flood was over. And old legend tells that Christ's cross was made of olive-and cedar-wood. For Islam, the olive is the central tree, the World axis, a symbol of Universal Man and of the Prophet." (from The Penguin Dictionary of Symbols" by Jean Cheavlier and Alain Gheerbrant)
All trees symbolize different things, for example the oak symbolizes strength and courage. The ancient Romans thought oak trees attracted lightening and connected the oak tree to the sky god, Jupiter and his wife, Juno, the goddess of marriage. Thus, the oak is used in art symbolism as a symbol of conjugal fidelity and fulfillment.
Birch and Cherry trees symbolize new awakenings and renewal....and my other favorite tree, the Willow tree, stands for magic, healing, inner vision and dreams.
Behind our studio stands a huge Sycamore tree, it's white bark is beautiful and can seem to glow in the light of a full moon...I was thrilled to find out some years ago that these trees hold great spiritual meaning and have been worshipped in various cultures throughout time. The fig leaf mentioned in the Bible came from a Sycamore tree-Ficus Sycomourus- and for both the Ancient Egyptians and the Mayas, the Sycamore stood on the threshold of life and death, connecting the two worlds... it symbolizes protection, divinity, eternity, and strength.
It is a Sycamore that survived the attacks in New York... what a blessing to have this wonderful tree looking down on us day to day!
Allow the image of a tree to be a visual reminder to help you heal and/or fulfill the dreams and visions for your life.
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