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Sarah Urist Green is on a mission to change the way we think about creativity. "Creativity is overrated," she says flatly. What she means is that you don't have to feel creative in order to make art. You don't have to think of yourself as an artist to make art. You don't need a degree or fancy materials to make art. All you need is to just do it.

And in her new book, “You Are An Artist,” she hopes to take the elements of fear and decision-making out of art-making. 

"Maybe you don't know what kind of art feels good or right," Green says. "These exercises can help you figure that out." 

Green has spent years working with contemporary artists to highlight their processes and work through her PBS video series, “The Art Assignment.” Together, the artists and curator built a workbook of art projects derived from the artists' approach to art-making. "When you read about the artist's approach, it helps you understand deeper."

The projects, thankfully, can be done in isolation and shared virtually. Whether you have a background in art or not is not important to Green. 

"Making the most of what you have and being creative with materials found anywhere."

Here are five of the projects from the book that you can do today, whether you're 9 or 90, without any expensive materials or experience:

Share your creations with us on Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag #stayhomemakeart.

is coming out April 14 from Penguin Random House. You can preorder it now. 

Arts and Culture

The Thread® - Books and Literary News

The Thread

LA Johnson

Author

Sarah Urist Green, creator of PBS' “The Art Assignment,” walks through five fun art projects that don't require fancy supplies or talent to create and enjoy.

5 easy art projects to enjoy during social distancing

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