Some 30% of British adults ‘don’t know how to be’ artistic, according to new poll

Research also highlights impact of pandemic on arts sector

Creativity doesn't have to be arts or music - it can be a TikTok dance (Getty)

Nearly half of adults don’t consider themselves to be artistic — despite enjoying creative hobbies such as cooking, photography and gardening.

The study of 2,000 Britons revealed 42 per cent of those put it down to not having the imagination, while 30 per cent simply ‘don’t know how to be’ artistic.

But 60 per cent would like to be more creative, although blamed a lack of time, inspiration and even money for holding them back.

Despite this lack of inspiration, the research found seven in 10 will take part in artistic hobbies three times a week or more, including listening to music, reading a book, singing or dancing.

The survey was commissioned by Sky Arts. Philip Edgar-Jones, director of the channel, said: “When you hear the word ‘artistic’ you might immediately think of being a good painter or great at singing, but it can be anything that draws on your imagination.

“Whether that’s baking a cake, taking a photograph, dancing in a TikTok or writing a letter. That’s why we’ve thrown open the doors to make Sky Arts a TV channel that’s free for everyone to watch.”

The research also revealed 41 per cent enjoy taking the time for more imaginative interests because it helps them to relax.

A further four in 10 said it makes them feel happy, with 30 per cent feeling more content when doing something creative.

And one in 10 even said it makes them feel younger.

The research also showed how trends have changed as a result of the pandemic, with 30 per cent missing nights out at the theatre and 36 per cent longing for a trip to the cinema.

Almost three in 10 have felt incomplete without frequent trips to museums to stimulate their artistic passions, while 27 per cent want to return to music venues and concerts.

Many of those polled also admitted they couldn't imagine a world without books (50 per cent), music (48 per cent), TV (44 per cent) and films (30 per cent).

In fact, two-fifths would feel bored and even sad if they lived in a world where they couldn't enjoy creative interests.

But in a bid to keep their creative juices flowing during lockdown, 75 per cent made sure their artistic pursuits don’t fall by the wayside — or have even done more of the things they are passionate about.

For more than half, this helped them to relax, while 45 per cent said it helped to support their mental health, according to the OnePoll data.

SWNS