Aardman's Stop-Motion Magic Unveiled at Young V&A Exhibition
An illuminating and sometimes surprising exhibition at east London's Young V&A is showcasing the work of the world's leading stop-motion studio, Bristol-based Aardman. Titled Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends, the show opens on Thursday and runs until 25 November, offering a rare glimpse into the creative processes behind beloved characters.
From Early Sketches to Iconic Characters
Early sketches reveal fascinating transformations: Wallace was once envisioned with a moustache and postman's coat, nearly resembling historical figures, while Gromit initially had fangs and the ability to speak. These designs were judiciously refined, with Gromit becoming toothless and mute, and Wallace's face softened into a wider, friendlier visage after creator Nick Park observed Peter Sallis enunciating the word "cheese".
A Legacy of Success and Innovation
Aardman, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, stands as one of UK film's most enduring success stories, boasting four Oscars and eight Baftas. Its first film, Chicken Run, remains the highest-grossing stop-motion movie ever, earning $225 million. The latest Wallace & Gromit special became the BBC's most-watched scripted show in two decades after its 2024 Christmas broadcast.
The exhibition has already generated significant interest, with sales comparable to the V&A's main South Kensington site. Over a quarter of tickets are sold, and the first three weeks are entirely booked.
Interactive Displays for Young Minds
More than 150 items are on display, including never-before-seen models, sets, and storyboards from Aardman's archives. These are particularly precious due to a 2005 fire that destroyed thousands of original items. The layout recreates a studio tour experience, offering children "a peek behind the curtain" to inspire future creatives.
Chief curator Alex Newson emphasised the exhibition's hands-on approach: "What we see with kids is that they run to the interactive things first. Without those, they won't engage with items in cases." Activities include shooting 20-frame stop-motion shorts with Playmobil figures and creating soundtracks using everyday objects.
The Art of Stop-Motion Revealed
Visitors can handle models and malleable metal skeletons, and manipulate lighting rigs to see dramatic effects. Displays feature meticulous creations like Gromit's vegetable patch and a detailed ship from The Pirates! film. Everyday objects like cling film and lentils are showcased, the latter used as rivets on Wallace's rocket.
TV screens explain Aardman's unique processes, such as the "model hospital" for repairs, and show Nick Park acting out storyboards to capture authentic facial expressions. Despite his modest public persona, Park is revealed as a highly adept performer.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The exhibition aims to recruit children into animation, with concepts tested through years of school workshops and internships. Co-founder Peter Lord noted the "simple pleasure" of working with clay remains engaging, even in the smartphone era. "Modelling is engrossing," he said, highlighting Aardman's blend of technical skill and playful storytelling.
Newson added: "Stop-motion is maybe more loved than ever. It's not an antidote to AI, but its homespun nature resonates as a counterpoint." This sentiment is reflected in Aardman's global reach, with theme parks worldwide and characters like Shaun the Sheep driving 35% of overseas business due to their dialogue-free appeal.
Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends runs from 10 February to 25 November at the Young V&A in London, promising to delight visitors of all ages while fostering creativity in young minds.
