• Swindon & Wiltshire Culture
• Wednesday December 3 2025

Aardman to celebrate 50 years in Bristol with major exhibition

Wallace & Gromit animators Aardman are marking their 50th anniversary in Bristol next year with a major exhibition in their home city of Bristol.

Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol will launch at M Shed next year.

There will also be exhibits in Bristol Museum & Art Gallery to mark the milestone.

Aardman says the exhibition will “offer fans of all ages a behind-the-scenes look at Aardman’s creative process, iconic characters, and the studio’s deep-rooted connection to Bristol.”

Councillor Tony Dyer, leader of Bristol City Council, said: “Access to arts and culture is vital for a thriving, inclusive city like Bristol.

“Creativity shapes how we see the world and how we connect with each other, and its impact on our communities cannot be overstated.

“Aardman’s story is a shining example of what imagination can achieve, and I hope this celebration inspires young people across Bristol to unlock their own creative potential and see that the arts are for everyone.”

Philip Walker, head of culture at Bristol Museums, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be working with Aardman on this exciting collaboration.

It’s a brilliant celebration of Bristol’s creative spirit and a tribute to the imagination and humour that Aardman has shared with the world for half a century.

“We can’t wait to showcase 50 years of clay, creativity, and cracking adventures.”

Ngaio Harding-Hill, head of attractions and live events at Aardman said: “2026 is such an important year for Aardman and the anniversary would never have been complete without a celebration in our home city.

“The programme of experiences with M Shed and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery will be a real highlight celebrating the importance of Bristol, its people and creative connection to the studio over the last 50 years.”

The 50th anniversary will also be marked with a new movie – Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom – in the autumn.