In Montreal, sometimes we run across art in the strangest of places. There’s no shortage of random art pieces, sculptures and installations throughout the city, with some more intriguing than others. It’s often understated and because of this, we don’t always take notice. One piece of art that I used to take for granted until recently is ‘The Tree of Life’ inside the Lionel Groulx Metro station in Little Burgundy.

When the city of Montreal had a world expo in 1967, The Tree of Life was created for the entrance to the Pavillions. It’s a 150-year-old walnut tree with 5 faces each representing a different continent carved into the trunk. When Expo 67 ended, the United Nations gave the tree to Montreal and moved it to where it now stands inside metro Lionel Groulx. I’ve come to appreciate the artistry and positive message behind this work, and it’s an easy meeting point when I make plans with friends.