Three in ten Brits rate their art skills as ‘very poor’, even though we like pastime

Over half of Brits like the idea of art as a pastime – but seven in ten worry they don’t have the talent for it, and 53% fear their efforts would be judged by others

Three in ten self-deprecating Brits (31%) would rate themselves as “very poor” – when it comes to their art skills, research has found.

Over half of Brits (53%) like the idea of art as a pastime – but 69% don’t believe they have the talent for it, with 28% describing their art skills as distinctly average.

And 60%, of the 2,000 adults polled, are daunted by the prospect of creating something arty – as 53% fear it might be judged by others.

Meanwhile, nearly one in five are their own harshest critics, and worry their work wouldn’t live up to their own expectations – resulting in 63% never seriously considering pursuing art as a hobby.

It also emerged that nearly half of Brits don’t have any art supplies in their home – and as many as a fifth admit they have never even picked up a paintbrush, other than to decorate.

The study was commissioned by Sky Arts ahead of two Celebrating David Hockney films, airing next Monday and Tuesday (August 28 and 29), at 9pm.

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It has also launched free creative workshops to help people get in touch with their artistic sides, and take inspiration from one of the world’s greatest living artists.

Presenter Gemma Cairney, who was at Spitalfields City Farm to practice her painting with a local artist, and help launch the workshops, said: “Having access to the arts is so important, both growing up and as adults, too – we should have every opportunity to get creative.”

The study also revealed many are still keen to have art in their home – with a third opting to display the works of local artists, and 24% putting their kids’ works on show.

But a third were put off giving it a go themselves because of cost, while almost one in five didn’t think there were enough places in their local area to help explore their artistic side.

As a result, many would like to see more craft stores, art galleries, and cultural centres locally, according to the OnePoll data.

A third would be more encouraged to pick up a paintbrush if they had someone to teach them, and 26% would give free activities a go.

Phil Edgar Jones, director of Sky Arts, said: “Our research shows there are lots of budding artists out there just waiting to give it a go – but not everyone has access to the supplies required, and it can be difficult sometimes to take the leap and try something new.

“Our brand new films celebrating David Hockney will give everyone the chance to get up close to one of the greatest artists of our time.

“So, if you’re inspired by his work, put your artistic skills to the test for free, and join us at one of our workshops up and down the country. You might discover a hobby that could captivate you for years to come.”