Unleash your creative juices with a new venture and give the right side of your brain an exercise! Although there are infinite methods for stimulating innovative thought, did you know that TV can also be incredibly beneficial? It’s true! Leverage these 17 amazing shows to unlock your inspiration.

1. Chef’s Table (available on Netflix)

Are you looking for something to spark your inner chef? Look no further than Chef’s Table! This series allows viewers to observe some of the most inspiring chefs in the world as they delve into their creative processes. Massimo Bottura creates mini food sculptures that look like works of art, and Francis Mallmann uses open fires to cook up delectable dishes in Patagonia. After watching this show, you’ll feel more motivated than ever before to head straight for the kitchen and create masterful plates of your own!

2. Flight of The Conchords (available on HBO, Amazon, and iTunes)

Flight of the Conchords is a hilarious journey, following two real-life New Zealand musicians in their pursuit to make it big in NYC. These guys know what they’re doing when it comes to music, and you can be sure that every song featured on the show was crafted with precision and care. Whether you’re looking for inspiration as an aspiring musician or comedian, this show should not be missed!

3. MasterChef Junior (available on FOX, Amazon, and iTunes)

Fellas, this isn’t your typical cooking show! The chefs competing in the program vary in age from 8 to 13 and their culinary talents are undeniable. If you have watched a few episodes, then you may be tempted to don an apron and give it a go yourself. After all, if these 9-year old prodigies can make exquisite Beef Wellington dishes within the hour – so can you!

4. The Writers’ Room (available on SundanceTV, Amazon, and iTunes)

If you are passionate about TV and want to know exactly how your favorite shows were created, The Writers’ Room with host Jim Rash is an absolute must-watch. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look into the creative process as he talks directly to writers who craft those life-altering plot decisions! For all aspiring writers out there, it’s truly inspirational. Don’t miss this opportunity for a unique glimpse into the minds of some brilliant wordsmiths!

5. Shark Tank (available on ABC, Hulu, Amazon, and iTunes)

Do you too religiously follow Shark Tank? After binging an entire season, it’s easy to find yourself infected with the entrepreneurial spirit. Witnessing countless pitches that have gone on to become million-dollar ideas makes it difficult not to be motivated by your own inventive dreams!

6. Chopped (available on Food Network, Netflix, Amazon, and iTunes)

If we had the chance to be a judge on any television program, Chopped would unquestionably take precedence. Four talented chefs strive to create an enticing three-course meal with their allocated basket of obscure ingredients (bacon popcorn appetizers, anyone?). By taking out random items from your refrigerator and inventing something novel as well, you can replicate this same exciting experience! It sounds like the ideal Friday night plan for us!

7. Face Off (available on SyFy, Hulu, Amazon, and iTunes )

Put professional prosthetic makeup artists to the test by challenging them each week to create unique and eerie characters. The results are truly remarkable – so stellar, in fact, that we can’t help but wish our Halloween looks were crafted with such artistry! See for yourself how creative these makeup geniuses get when pitted against one another.

8. American Genius (available on National Geographic)

This show dives deep into some of the most competitive rivalries in history, from Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison to Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, exploring how these intense conflicts triggered unprecedented creativity. It serves as a thought-provoking reminder that embracing rivalry can be an invaluable tool for driving your own creative progress.

9. Iconoclasts (available on SundanceTV, Amazon, and iTunes)

Imagine being granted the opportunity to observe two renowned artists, both in their respective fields, interact for an entire hour. Iconoclasts not only provide this unique experience with celebrities such as Lena Dunham and Judd Apatow or Seth MacFarlane and Norah Jones; it also offers a glimpse into their individual passions, dreams, and motivations! Wouldn’t you like to join in on these incredible conversations?

10. Ace of Cakes (available on Food Network, Netflix, Amazon, and iTunes)

We are absolutely mesmerized by cakes, so when we came across this show that crafts the most extravagant confectionaries imaginable, it was an instant addition to our watchlist! The star chef is a master of their craft and has found incredible ways to put on a dessert display like no other. From pyrotechnic-producing desserts to life-sized replicas – one look at these delightful creations will leave you longing for something sweet in an extraordinary way.

11. Treehouse Masters (available on Animal Planet, Hulu, Amazon, and iTunes)

If you’ve ever wanted to see the most creative and elaborate treehouses from around the world, look no further than Treehouse Masters. The show follows Pete Nelson, a professional treehouse expert as he explores these incredible buildings made of trees! Forget your childhood dreams – these awe-inspiring structures will make you wish that they were yours. So take out those old drawing pads and get started on making them real!

12. Rehab Addict (available on HGTV, Amazon, and iTunes)

Embrace the beauty of vintage design when you watch a few episodes of these home restoration shows. These series’ inspire homeowners to restore their old houses and breathe new life into them, rather than engaging in costly remodeling projects. Gather some ideas now for your own dream house!

13. American Masters (available on PBS)

This show has brought to light some of America’s most celebrated creative geniuses. From Neil Young to Judy Garland, you can discover their influence on our nation’s pop culture. Watch these past masters and let them spark your creativity for the future – it’ll be seriously inspiring!

14. Whose Line Is It Anyway? (available on The CW, Amazon, and iTunes)

Be prepared to be swept off your feet as you watch this show that features comedians inventing songs, characters, and skits on the spot. This performance is sure to spark some creative thinking! If you want to channel your inner improv artist try out “Party Quirks” at your next dinner gathering; it will surely make you the hostess with the mostest!

15. Green Porno (available on SundanceTV)

Isabella Rossellini shines in the captivating Green Porno, where she brings to life odd and unique animal mating rituals that many of us would never contemplate. This series of short films will compel you to consider this mysterious kingdom from a novel perspective.

16. Project Runway (available on Lifetime, Amazon, and iTunes)

Get your weekly fashion fix with the iconic show, Project Runway! Watch as aspiring designers battle it out for a chance to make their mark at New York’s Fashion Week. If you spend some time binging on this classic hit series, not only will you be inspired, but soon enough you’ll have created your own fashion challenges using everyday items like toilet paper rolls and tape. Get ready to experience that signature Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn “make it work” magic!

17. Fixer Upper (available on HGTV, Amazon, and iTunes)

Tune in to Fixer Upper and watch the dynamic duo Chip and Joanna Gaines help Texas buyers revamp homes that desperately require some major TLC. After viewing a few episodes, you’ll be inspired to totally transform your living space!

Have a creative project of your own that you want to share? Submit your idea to the #IAMCREATIVE foundation for a chance to win $$$ to kickstart your dream!

Brit + Co was proud to be the original publisher of this article. 

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