9 ways to get creativity flowing during a WFH lunch break

Doodle and color

While our access to the outside world is limited, doodling is an easy way to get creative with items you already have at home. If you’re more of a color-inside-the-lines kind of person, check out these coloring pages of famous artworks ready to download. Don’t be afraid to mess up, just start.

Use your words

Take five minutes to write a haiku (Japanese style three-line poem with a 5-7-5 syllable structure) about your day, your mindset, or even what’s on your lunch menu. This idea comes from Inc., and luckily they’ve shared 31 other ways to boost creativity while at home that we think are pretty great.

Practice writing your letters

Lettering has surged in popularity and visibility in the past few years, and is a fun way to share favorite phrases with the world. Draw your own letterforms, or use this printable practice sheet we’ve created as a place to start.

Paint your own masterpiece

Whether you try your hand at watercolors, or break out the finger paint with your kids, painting is a relaxing and beloved art form with many styles to explore. Here’s a watercolor tutorial from Mint staffer Leslie Strauss to get started.

 

Take it from the experts

Read a book about art or creativity to get your creative juices flowing before your next project. A few favorites: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon, How to be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum by Keri Smith, and Creative Block: Get Unstuck, Discover New Ideas. Advice & Projects from 50 Successful Artists by  Danielle Krysa. (Not into these? Check out what our staff has been reading during this time at home).

Preserve the moment with photos

Every phone has a camera these days, and thankfully photography is a pastime that we can all enjoy no matter our skill level. Take photos of your surroundings, your family, or try your hand at nature shots. Check our guide to getting your best snapshots with tips from some Charlotte professional photographers.

Build your creativity soundtrack

Find an already made playlist on Spotify or Pandora, or dive into a genre you’re unfamiliar with. Artist Michael Sherrill shares this favorite playlist.

Take a class and support a local business

Skillpop Anywhere and other local businesses are using art as inspiration for classes you can take at home to grow your next hobby or skill.

Visit a museum

The experience of seeing artwork in person can’t be replicated, but the Mint—and many other museums across the world—are taking a chance on virtual tours, videos, and all kinds of alternative methods to bring art to your couch, kitchen table, or sunroom. Join curator Brian Gallagher for a gallery tour of our Classic Black exhibition, or travel a little farther from home with tours from The National Gallery in London, The J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, or the Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand in Brazil.