Leonardo who? We like Banksy

Phoenix Nights star Peter Kay and guerrilla artist Banksy are bigger art heroes among young people than Leonardo da Vinci, if a new survey is to be believed.

Britons aged 18 to 25 were asked to name those who inspired them from the worlds of music, dance, literature, film and visual arts - and Bolton comic Kay came second.

Walt Disney, the father of Mickey Mouse, topped the list, while Banksy came third. Despite a body of work including the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, da Vinci could manage only fourth place amoung youngsters - but he was a firm favourite when older voters were questioned.

The survey of 6,000 people was commissioned by the Arts Award, a qualification which recognises young people's development through the arts.

Spokeswoman Diana Walton said: 'The results show young people are inspired by a range of artists they feel are relevant to their lives, including comedians and musicians, but also renowned arts figures like Leonardo da Vinci.'

The award is supported by celebrities including actor Richard E Grant and TV presenter Graham Norton.

Norton said yesterday: 'While young people are often stereotyped as aggressive and anti-social, the Arts Award is a great way to see so many are channelling their creative energy in a positive way.'

The Top Ten arts heroes

A survey commissioned by the Arts Award asked 18-25-year-olds to name the artists who most inspire them from the world of music, dance, literature, film and visual arts. The most popular artists were...

1. Walt Disney
2. Peter Kay
3. Banksy
4. Leonardo Da Vinci
5. Bob Marley
6. Jane Austen
7. Bob Dylan
8. Tim Burton
9. Marilyn Monroe
10. Will Smith