Conservators lift a perspex dome over a model of Wallace and Gromit at the M Shed in Bristol, where a new exhibition celebrates Aardman's 50-year legacy. The show features characters and sets from beloved creations like Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Chicken Run, highlighting the studio's deep connection to the city.
50 Years of Aardman in Bristol
The exhibition at the M Shed, located near Aardman's base on Gas Ferry Road, traces the studio's rise from modest beginnings in Bristol to global fame. It showcases how Aardman won hearts with Morph on Take Hart before creating international icons like Shaun the Sheep and the Chicken Run gang.
Ngaio Harding-Hill, director of attractions, live experiences and archive at Aardman, said the studio's creative identity celebrates independence, a spirit that permeates Bristol. The exhibition aims to inspire young people to consider careers in the creative industries.
Bristol Influences in Aardman Works
The show highlights how south-west England locations and products appear in Aardman films. Grimy railway arches in a Shaun the Sheep tale are based on Bristol Temple Meads station. Tottington Hall from Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit was modeled on Montacute House in Somerset. A Chicken Run set includes a tin of "Fly's Cocoa," a nod to Fry's chocolate, founded in Bristol.
Notable Exhibits
Highlights include a flying machine from Chicken Run that survived the 2005 studio fire, saved by a staff member. Another set, never before shown, features Wallace and Gromit held captive by Feathers McGraw from the 2024 film Vengeance Most Fowl. Steve Bradley, exhibitions and displays manager, praised the craftsmanship of even the grubbiest sets.
The first weekend is sold out. Visitors can buy limited-edition badges, key rings, and jewellery, and dine on Aardman-themed food including pasta and sandwiches with Wallace's beloved wensleydale cheese.
Helen McConnell Simpson, senior curator at Bristol Museums, said the exhibition offers joy and celebration in a difficult world. "Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol" runs from 20 June to 13 September.
