At The White’s Emporium, we’re thrilled to introduce our latest art piece, Stages of Life , a contemporary interpretation of the timeless “Tree of Life” motif. This global symbol, revered across cultures and religions as a representation of interconnectedness and growth, finds new meaning in our celebration of Newfoundland and Labrador’s coastal heritage.

From the Ocean to the Canvas
The Tree of Life often symbolizes unity and the cyclical nature of existence, but in outport Newfoundland, its roots run deeper—into the Atlantic Ocean itself. For centuries, the fishery has been the lifeblood of our communities, providing sustenance, livelihoods, and a reason to call this rugged coastline home. The “fruits” of the sea, as depicted in Stages of Life , reflect our gratitude for this enduring relationship. Just as the Tree of Life represents eternal growth in spiritual traditions, we hope this art piece inspires reflection on the resilience and future of our coastal way of life.

Crafted with Purpose
Every element of Stages of Life honours sustainability and heritage. Carved from birch wood and painted with acrylics, the piece features wharves constructed from reclaimed wood—a nod to Newfoundland’s resourcefulness and respect for the past. The lone exception is the rope, a deliberate reminder of the fishing industry’s enduring presence.

Visit Them in Twillingate
Stages of Life is now on display at our gallery, located at 197 Main Street in Twillingate, NL . They invite you to experience this ode to tradition, nature, and community—a testament to the idea that like the Tree of Life, our stories are forever intertwined with the tides that shape us. Visit them online https://whitesemporium.ca/.