Aardman Animations is marking its 50th anniversary with a new exhibition at Bristol’s M Shed museum, underscoring the studio’s long-standing ties to the south-west of England. Located just steps from Aardman’s base on Gas Ferry Road, the show highlights the company’s evolution from its early days in Bristol to its international acclaim through characters such as Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and the cast of Chicken Run.
The exhibition showcases numerous puppets, meticulously crafted sets, and explores how Aardman’s creative output reflects Bristol’s independent and occasionally rebellious spirit. Ngaio Harding-Hill, Aardman’s director of attractions, live experiences, and archive, emphasized the studio’s commitment to celebrating creative independence. She added that the exhibit aims not only to entertain but also to inspire young people to consider careers in the creative industries, noting the development of a strong creative community in Bristol over the past five decades.
The display features several notable references to south-west England. For instance, gritty railway arches in a Shaun the Sheep episode are inspired by Bristol Temple Meads station, while Tottington Hall from “Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” is based on Montacute House, a late Elizabethan mansion in Somerset. Fans familiar with the area will also spot subtle nods such as a tin labeled “Fly’s Cocoa” among Chicken Run’s sets, alluding to Fry’s chocolate, a Bristol-founded company.
Among the highlights is a model of the flying machine from Chicken Run that survived the 2005 fire which destroyed much of Aardman’s archives and studio—having been safeguarded by a crew member in a garage. Another rare piece is a previously unseen set featuring Wallace and Gromit held captive by Feathers McGraw from the 2024 film “Vengeance Most Fowl.”
Steve Bradley, M Shed’s exhibitions and displays manager, noted the responsibility involved in preserving the collection, expressing particular admiration for the detailed craftsmanship of grittier set pieces. He highlighted one set centered around a skip with a barbed-wire fence adorned with tiny plastic bags, praising the artistry despite its rough appearance.
The exhibition’s opening weekend has already sold out. Visitors can also enjoy themed food at the museum’s café, including pasta and sandwiches featuring Wensleydale cheese, famously favored by Wallace.
Helen McConnell Simpson, senior curator of history at Bristol Museums, reflected on the importance of such cultural events. While the museum continues to address challenging topics—such as housing the statue of slave trader Edward Colston since its removal from public display—she welcomed the exhibition’s focus on joy, creativity, and community during a time of global uncertainty.