Half of Brits have never been to art gallery as arts still seen as ‘privileged’

A recent survey has found only four in ten Brits consider the arts to be inclusive – three quarters of us have never attended an orchestra performance and half haven’t been to an art gallery

More than a third of adults believe the arts world is out of their reach, reserved only for the privileged. A survey of 2,000 Brits revealed that only 39 per cent view the arts – encompassing fields such as filmmaking, television and dance – as inclusive.

The forms most associated with being exclusive were opera (53 per cent), ballet (49 per cent) and fine arts (43 per cent). Meanwhile, just 26 per cent see themselves reflected in the arts. As a result, three quarters have never attended an orchestra performance, almost half have avoided visiting an art gallery and a quarter have never been to a museum.

The study, commissioned by Sky Arts who are on a mission to make the arts more accessible to all, found that television and film were the most enjoyed forms and according to the poll, cheaper tickets would encourage more people to attend arts events.

Despite some feeling excluded, those who have attended arts events in the past have felt engaged (46 per cent), inspired (29 per cent) and joyful (30 per cent).

Over a third believe careers in the arts should be more accessible. A diverse mix of performers would encourage people to attend more arts events in the future.

Phil Edgar-Jones, OBE and spokesperson for Sky Arts, which is hosting Sky Arts Awards which take place on the 16th September, said: “There are clearly changes which need to be made for the average person to feel more welcome and represented in the arts world. We want to help break down barriers.

“By shining a spotlight on the people who make the arts possible, both on stage and behind the scenes – and inviting the community to nominate their own arts heroes – we hope more people can see the arts as something for them.”

Two thirds feel jobs behind the scenes in the arts aren’t celebrated enough, despite 48 per cent believing such workers contribute to keeping the industry alive ahead of performers and artists (41 per cent).

Phil added: “Too often, attention goes only to those on stage or in front of the camera, but the truth is the arts are powered 24/7 by an army of extraordinary people from all walks of life, working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the UK arts world thriving.

“Our Arts Hero Award champions those unsung heroes – the riggers, engineers, drivers, mentors and many more – and celebrates them alongside filmmakers, poets, dancers, writers, comedians, musicians, which is just how it should be.”

The study revealed a desire for greater recognition of costume designers (53 per cent), sound engineers (52 per cent) and camera operators (46 per cent). Brits also want to see more appreciation for cleaners, roadies and admin staff.