Inside the Edmonton Convention Centre a powerful new mural invites visitors to pause, reflect, and connect. The Tree of Life, created by artist Theodora Harasymiw, is an inspiring visual representation of what it means to piece together what was torn apart.
Emerging from a place of grief and reflection, the mosaic is deeply rooted in Harasymiw’s Ukrainian heritage and inspired by the ongoing destruction of cultural landmarks in Ukraine. The art of creating a mosaic demands patience and care as each fragment is deliberately placed, gradually forming a cohesive whole. For Harasymiw, this process is not just about creating something beautiful, but rather a way of making sense of the world. As she describes it, the work unfolds intuitively, guided by purpose and a quiet sense of dedication.
“My protest lives in the making, in the building, in choosing to dedicate hours, days, weeks, and months, piecing together what others have demolished. This tree of life stands as a witness, but also an invitation.”
As once a tribute and a testament, the piece mourns what was lost while standing firmly in resilience. Birds and flowers weave through the mosaic to symbolize renewal and hope. Like life itself, the artwork is built from fragments, memories, and materials that come together to form something enduring.
The Tree of Life stands not only for Ukraine, but for every culture threatened with erasure. It serves as a powerful reminder that rebuilding is a collective act and that by standing together, we can help pick up the pieces and restore what has been broken. In this way, the mosaic serves as both a witness and a call to action: to remember, to protect, and to rebuild.
Hear more from Theodora Harasymiw on her Tree of Life mosaic here.
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