Aardman, the award-winning UK studio, and Bristol Museums will celebrate Aardman’s 50th anniversary through a new collaboration.
Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol at M Shed will give fans of all ages a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Aardman’s creative process, beloved characters, and the studio’s strong ties to Bristol.
Alongside this new exhibition, small art installations and Aardman treasures will be hidden throughout Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. Details will be revealed in the new year.
This joyful and nostalgic celebration will honour Aardman’s 50-year legacy, highlighting its journey from humble beginnings in Bristol to becoming a worldwide creative leader.
Celebration in home city
Councillor Tony Dyer, leader of Bristol City Council, says: “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, Bristol Museums, says: “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 & live events at Aardman, adds: “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.”
Next year, Aardman will mark its 50th anniversary with a series of events and celebrations that showcase the studio's craftsmanship and legacy. These include the release of the new film, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, set for autumn.
Aardman will also be sharing a look behind the scenes in another new exhibition, Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends, opening at Young V&A, London on 12 February 2026.
Charlotte Coates is blooloop's editor. She is from Brighton, UK and previously worked as a librarian. She has a strong interest in arts, culture and information and graduated from the University of Sussex with a degree in English Literature. Charlotte can usually be found either with her head in a book or planning her next travel adventure.
