Inside Aardman: Celebrating 50 Years of Wallace & Gromit

The Young V&A in Bethnal Green, London, is set to host a major exhibition titled _Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends_, running from February 12 to November 15, 2026. This exhibition marks the 50th anniversary of Aardman Animations, the studio renowned for its beloved characters such as Wallace & Gromit, Morph, and Shaun the Sheep. The event aims to provide an immersive experience that delves into the creative legacy of Aardman, showcasing over 150 objects from its archives, many of which have never been publicly displayed.

Ticket Alert: New Exhibition Goes Behind The Scenes On Wallace & GromitThe Independent

Visitors can expect to see a variety of artifacts, including early character sketches, concept art, puppets, props, and intricate set models. Notable highlights include the motorbike and sidecar from the recent film _Vengeance Most Fowl_ (2024), a hand-drawn storyboard from the iconic train chase in _The Wrong Trousers_ (1993), and development sketches for Morph. The exhibition also features interactive activities designed for children, allowing them to engage in stop-motion animation techniques, such as storyboarding and character design.

The Independent

Aardman Animations was founded by Nick Park and his school friend, who began their journey experimenting with animation at home. The studio has since evolved into one of the most successful animation companies globally, known for its distinctive stop-motion style that retains a handcrafted feel. Aardman's films have garnered multiple accolades, including four Academy Awards and numerous BAFTAs, reflecting their impact on the animation industry.

The Independent

Alex Newson, chief curator at the Young V&A, emphasized the studio's humble beginnings, stating, "Aardman quite literally began on the kitchen table... Even though Aardman is now one of the most successful animation studios in the world, its films still have the same handcrafted feel." Ngaio Harding-Hill, head of live attractions and live experiences at Aardman, expressed hope that the exhibition would inspire future generations of storytellers and animators, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship involved in the animation process.

The Independent

While the exhibition is anticipated to attract many visitors, some critics may argue that the focus on Aardman's commercial success overshadows the artistic challenges faced by independent animators. The emphasis on interactive activities for children may also be seen as a departure from the studio's traditional storytelling methods, which some purists might prefer.

The Independent

• “Alex Newson, chief curator at the Young V&A, remarked: "Aardman quite literally began on the kitchen table, when two young school friends started experimenting with animations at home.” — Alex Newson, Chief Curator, Young V&A

The Independent

• “ open image in gallery Nick Park created Wallace and Gomit in 1989 ( PA Wire ) Ngaio Harding-Hill, head of live attractions and live experiences at Aardman, added: "As Aardman celebrates its 50th anniversary, Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends offers a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on the creativity and craftsmanship behind the animation process – from initial sketch through to post-production.” — Ngaio Harding-Hill, Head of Live Attractions, Aardman

The Independent

This exhibition promises to be a significant celebration of Aardman's legacy, offering both nostalgia for long-time fans and an educational experience for new audiences.

The Independent