Dogwood tree art is highly popular because of the characteristic blossoms and stately demeanor of this classic tree. These works are generally representational in execution and have a more classic style than many other forms of natural landscape pictures. However, dogwood trees are explored in several different kinds of nature-based prints, including leaf art, blossom art, and others.
Many natural landscape pictures include dogwoods in their depictions. These works are generally executed with a stately grace and realism that works to highlight the unique textures and attitudes of these trees. Nature-based prints like 'Dogwood' by Albert Bierstadt and 'Peacock and Dogwood' by Maxine Johnson are common examples of these type of natural landscape paintings.
Photography also takes advantage of dogwood tree art. However, many of these prints actually depict the dogwood blossom rather than the tree itself. By using photography, photographers are able to reveal the natural structure and composition of these regal trees. For example, in Stephen N. Meyers' dogwood blossom photograph, 'Dogwood Blossoms-Negative' viewers are treated to an X-ray version of these infamous flowers.
Symbolically, dogwood tree art is generally seen as an image of spring and the joy that comes from something new and unexpected. This is largely because of the dogwoods' plain appearance until spring, when it bursts into bright and beautiful blooms. In Christian symbolism paintings, however, this tree is the symbol of the willingness to sacrifice for others. This religious interpretation is due to the widely held belief that Jesus was nailed to a cross made out of dogwood. Although there are few outright religious dogwood tree paintings, many inspirational works that feature this tree are made with this interpretation in mind.
