Bristol Museums and Aardman come together to celebrate 50 years of animation magic

A major new exhibition titled “Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol” will launch at M Shed in summer 2026. 

Bristol Museums and multi award-winning animation studio Aardman are thrilled to announce this landmark collaboration to celebrate Aardman’s 50th anniversary.  

Alongside this new exhibition will be small art installations and Aardman treasures hidden throughout Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, details of which will be revealed in the new year. 

“Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol” at M Shed promises to be a must-see cultural moment, offering 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. 

This joyful and nostalgic celebration will honour Aardman’s extraordinary legacy, from its humble beginnings in Bristol to becoming a global creative powerhouse. The studio has brought us beloved characters such as Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Morph, and continues to inspire generations with its distinctive stop-motion style and storytelling brilliance. 

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, 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 & 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 coming year sees Aardman celebrate its 50th anniversary with a roster of events and celebrations highlighting the craft and legacy of the studio, including the launch of the new movie, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom in the autumn.  

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a young budding Aardman lover, “Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol” is set to be one of the top cultural events to watch out for in 2026.