The Magic of Eco Printing on Textiles

This class will introduce students to the magic of printing with nature on pre-mordanted fabric using foraged leaves to produce designs on cotton fibers. Students will learn how art and science come together to create a bond between the tannins in the leaves and the vegetable fibers. We will cover fiber preparation (your fabric will already be prepped), plant selection and storage, and bundle and steam techniques.

Bring an apron and be ready to get your hands dirty! Plan to lay out and bundle your fabric in the beginning. We will discuss preparation and look at different samples of printing, while the bundles are steaming. Students will take home two pieces of eco-printed fibers.

When: Thursday October 22nd, 5pm - 8pm

Where: The Vista @ Origin Park

Address: 1784 Mill Creek Parkway, Clarksville, Indiana 47129

Paper Bag Park Creatures with Paig Trinkle

Create your own imaginative paper‑bag creature while enjoying the sights, sounds, and textures of nature. Guided by art educator Paig Trinkle, participants will explore shape, color, and creativity as they transform a simple paper bag into a one‑of‑a‑kind character inspired by the natural elements around us. We’ll notice patterns in the park, play with materials, and let loose with a fun, hands‑on project perfect for young artists and welcoming for teens who want to join in.

When: October 24th 11am - 12pm

Where: Buttonbush Woods Trailhead 398 Emery Crossing Road, Clarksville, 47129

Ages: Recommended for ages 3 and up, teens welcome.

Guardians are encouraged to accompany and assist very young artists.

Paig Trinkle's Bio:

Paig Trinkle, owner of The New Artists Studio, is dedicated to nurturing creativity and artistic skill among the community’s youth. In addition to her work as an educator, Paig serves as the Programming Director for the Arts Alliance of Southern Indiana, where she champions the power of positivity and connection by developing arts and culture initiatives that bring the community together.

Nature Detectives: Trees

Become a tree detective and uncover the secrets of the forest! During this Nature Detectives adventure, participants will explore the diverse trees that make Origin Park's wetlands, woodlands, and natural areas such a vibrant habitat for wildlife. Through a hands-on scavenger hunt and interactive activities, young detectives will learn how to identify trees by their leaves, bark, seeds, and shapes while discovering the important role trees play in our environment. Participants will investigate how trees provide food and shelter for wildlife, improve air and water quality, and help create healthy ecosystems.

From towering oaks to colorful maples, each tree has a story to tell. Participants will explore how trees change with the seasons, learn about tree rings and growth, and discover why forests are essential to both people and nature. Along the way, they'll sharpen their observation skills and gain a greater appreciation for the natural world around them. Participants who successfully complete the hunt will receive a prize. Attend all five Nature Detectives programs and you'll be entered to win a special grand prize drawing at the end of the series. Please dress comfortably for the outdoors and bring water. 

When: Wednesday, October 28th, 5:30–6:30 PM

Ages: All Ages Welcome

Note:  A parent or guardian must be present.

Where: Park at the Buttonbush Woods Trailhead Parking Lot and Meet at the Outdoor Classroom Behind the Parking Lot

Address:398 Emery Crossing, Clarksville, Indiana 47129

Nature Detectives Series at Origin Park

Calling all young explorers and curious minds! Join us for the Nature Detectives Series, a free monthly adventure designed to help participants discover the wonders of the natural world through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and exciting scavenger hunts.

Each month, Nature Detectives will investigate a new topic and uncover clues throughout Origin Park while learning about the plants, animals, and ecosystems that make our region unique. Participants who successfully complete each hunt will earn a prize, and those who attend all five programs will be entered to win a special grand prize drawing at the end of the series.

2026 Nature Detectives Schedule

• June 10: Water Cycle
• July 8: Animal Tracks
• August 12: Astronomy
• September 9: Monarch Butterflies
• October 28: Trees
  
  

Collecting and Storing Native Seeds with Margaret Shea!

Starting plants from seed sometimes feels like magic. Learning more about the best techniques for gathering the seeds doesn't take away from the magic- but it can improve your results! Margaret Shea will lead this workshop to discuss when to collect seeds, how to process them for storage, and the best ways to store seed to maintain their viability.

When: November 7th,  9am - 11pm

Where: The Vista at Origin Park

Address: 1784 Mill Creek Parkway, Clarksville, Indiana 47129

Margaret Shea's Bio:

Margaret Shea is the owner of Dropseed Native Plant Nursery, which she started in 2004. Margaret has a master's degree in ecology from Indiana University and prior to starting the nursery worked in natural areas management for Bernheim Forest, The Nature Conservancy and Kentucky Nature Preserves. Dropseed Nursery is located in Goshen, KY on land that Margaret shares with her husband David Keal, owner of Field 51 Produce, an organic vegetable farm.