In my journey to embrace creativity and to generally indulge in artistic pursuits, I’ve found myself finding inspiration everywhere I look. I think this is especially true in winter. Although a rather bleak season in nature, lacking the vibrant hues of autumn, the joyous florals of spring, or the buzzing activity of insects in summer, winter still holds a special point of interest for me.

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Many love Christmas crafts and painting snowy landscapes, which of course is a wonderful way to celebrate the magic of the season. However, I think there are several hidden sources of inspiration that reveal themselves in the darkness of winter.

1. Winter skies

I’m not sure if it’s just because I’m out and about more for sunrises in the winter as they appear much later in the day than in other seasons, but I don’t think I’ve seen a single sunrise during the winter that didn’t inspire awe. Sometimes the colours of sunsets are also incredible. There’s something truly mesmerising about deep blues littered with purple and glowing reds. I’ve included some of my favourite winter skies below.

2. Frost

Frost really holds a special place in my heart. There’s something so magical about it in all its forms. Whether it’s a light dusting of frost causing moss to sparkle, or intricate fern frost patterns on my roof, I find it so impossibly beautiful.

3. Signs of life

Although winter often marks a time of slowing down, of life resting in preparation for rebirth in spring, sometimes there are tiny signs of life around us if we look a little closer. Nervous buds sometimes poke through the surface of the earth or break through the bark of trees, providing an oft-needed symbol of hope in the dark season.

4. Fire

Although I haven’t had a fireplace in a long time, there are ways to enjoy flames, from bonfires to candles, to sitting in a cosy pub. I like looking for pictures that appear in the way the flames burn, to watch them dance, or to look for the story in the shadows cast by candlelight.

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I think sometimes we get caught up in what isn’t present, especially at this time of year, which is why I wanted to highlight some of the things that inspire me despite the darkness abounding.

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What are some ways you find inspiration when the weather is bleak?