Aardman exhibition celebrates half a century of animation studio in Bristol
The 'Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol' at M Shed honors the studio's deep connection to the city, showcasing puppets, sets, and references to south-west England.
Aardman exhibition at M Shed in Bristol
The M Shed museum in Bristol, just around the corner from Aardman's base on Gas Ferry Road, has opened an exhibition celebrating the studio's 50-year history in the city. The show traces Aardman's rise from modest beginnings to global fame, featuring beloved characters such as Morph, Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and the Chicken Run gang.
Bristol's spirit in animation
Ngaio Harding-Hill, Aardman's director of attractions, live experiences and archive, said the studio's creative identity has always celebrated independence, influenced by the spirit of Bristol. Many locations in Aardman works are inspired by the region – for example, the grimy railway arches in a Shaun the Sheep story are based on Bristol Temple Meads station, and Tottington Hall in 'Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit' was modelled on Montacute House in Somerset.
Unique exhibits and hidden gems
Among the exhibits is a flying machine from 'Chicken Run' that survived the 2005 fire which destroyed much of the studio's past. A production team member had stored it in their garage and returned it after the blaze. Also on public display for the first time is a set from the 2024 film 'Vengeance Most Fowl', featuring Wallace and Gromit held captive by their arch-enemy Feathers McGraw.
Visitor interest and themed food
The first weekend of the exhibition is already sold out. Visitors can purchase limited-edition souvenirs and enjoy Aardman-themed food in the café, such as pasta and sandwiches loaded with Wallace's beloved Wensleydale cheese.
Helen McConnell Simpson, senior curator of history at Bristol Museums, noted that M Shed often tackles difficult topics, so it's lovely to welcome families to an exhibition focused on joy and celebration. She added that in today's challenging world, it's great to have something based on warmth, community, creativity, and fun.
The exhibition 'Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol' runs from 20 June to 13 September.
