Being Creative

How does one be truly creative when you are getting graded and marked  against whether you have been 'creative' enough?
Time ticking away and pressure of time frames that you you need to demonstatrate that you can be 'creative'

Do i have to make a statement?
Do i have to be risky?
Do i have to be offensive?
Do i have to be modern?

What if i just like the look of textured rock?

What if i just like the different textures of sand?

What if i just like carving wood?
 
 
                         

                       Is that enough?