By Sarina Dellinger

For the Salisbury Post

SALISBURY — Often the winter season feels as though it drags by at a snail’s pace — the nights are long, the air is cold and most plants are fast asleep. Discovering creative inspiration can be challenging at times, but a closer look reveals that inspiration is all around us.

Hurley Park staff hosted two Nature Ornament workshops this season. Participants had the opportunity to craft ornaments to take home using natural elements collected from the park. Creativity was flowing with mice made from magnolia cones, snowmen from sweetgum fruit, and angels with ginkgo leaves. If you find yourself with spare time this season, try engaging in the creation of ornaments using elements from nature. This can be an affordable and enjoyable challenge. Personally, the workshop allowed me to perceive the fall and winter landscape from a fresh perspective.

On Saturday, Dec. 9, Waterworks Visual Arts Center hosted their annual Winter Lantern Walk at Hurley Park. Participants from the community were invited to create paper lanterns to light up the night on a meandering walk through the park. Once more, the spotlight was on creativity, featuring an array of paper lantern designs that included abstract concepts, snowmen, whales and a multitude of other imaginative ideas. The sparkle of lights amidst the winter’s dark landscape was a delightful sight at Hurley Park.

Hurley Park itself buds with creative inspiration during the winter months. With the leaves off the trees, the magic of their structure can be observed. Graceful branches stand out against the Carolina blue sky, while the textures and colors of the bark become readily apparent. The standing stems and seeds from perennials are highlighted by heavy frost and the low winter sun. The bright pop of Holly berries or the surprise of a perfectly poised Camellia bloom can inspire even those who aren’t looking for the subtle clues of winter inspiration in the garden.

Stop by Hurley Park to find your winter inspiration. In the meantime, follow our Facebook or Instagram @HurleyParkNC for updates about the park. If you have any additional questions, please give us a call at 704-638-5298.