Birches are truly magical trees!

One of my favourite artists, Gustav Klimt, seems to also have felt their tranquil and painted birch forests.

In mythology the Silver Birch takes a female form – it’s ancient name is “Graceful Lady of the Woods”.

It appears fragile and delicate but it is extremely hardy – it teaches us that in apparent weakness there is often great strength to be found.

Ancient wisdom taught that birch wood aided the calming of emotions and that looking at silver birch aided depression – it provided light in the darkness and is lit up by the moon.

The ancient lesson of Silver Birch as “a fresh start” – new beginnings in life as an adult, new choices, leaving childhood behind and the promise of new life and love.

Not only did the Silver Birch have these magical values, it also had many uses both medicinal and practical. The leaves of the Silver Birch tree can be brewed into a tea that treats infection and stimulates a healthy vitality.

This Silver Birch grew outside my family home in Germany and the sunset always made it look even more mysterious and dreamy.

This painting is in A2 and in acrylic.