Better Business / Member news

Barcan+Kirby announced headline sponsor of exhibition celebrating 50 years of Aardman

By Bristol24/7  Sunday Mar 1, 2026

The award-winning law firm Barcan+Kirby has been announced headline sponsor of Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol, a major new exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of Aardman Animations.

Hosted at M Shed this summer, the exhibition is a landmark collaboration between Bristol Museums and Aardman, marking half a century of creativity, imagination and unmistakable Bristol spirit.

With roots in Bristol stretching back more than 40 years, Barcan+Kirby has grown alongside the city it serves. The firm said its long-standing presence in the city made supporting the milestone exhibition a natural extension of its commitment to celebrating Bristol’s culture and innovation.

EatDrink24/7 Launch Party is back on July 8 2026!
Exclusive collabs from Bristol’s favourite food vendors, available for one night only. Be first to grab your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 guide – plus every ticket comes with a free limited-edition beer can.

Anna Wilson, managing partner at Barcan+Kirby, said: “We’re very excited to be a headline sponsor of the exhibition. Having previously sponsored The Grand Appeal’s ‘Gromit Unleashed’ trails in 2018 and 2025, it’s fantastic to be a part of the 50th anniversary which celebrates all things Aardman.”

Ngaio Harding-Hill, director of attractions and live events at Aardman, said: “Celebrating Aardman’s 50th anniversary in Bristol feels incredibly special, and our upcoming exhibition at M Shed is the perfect way to mark such an important milestone.

“Working with Bristol Museums and having the support of headline sponsor Barcan+Kirby makes this moment even more meaningful, shining a spotlight on the city, its creative community, and the people who have been part of our story for the past five decades.”

“Having previously sponsored The Grand Appeal’s ‘Gromit Unleashed’ trails in 2018 and 2025, it’s fantastic to be a part of the 50th anniversary which celebrates all things Aardman,” said Anna Wilson, managing partner at Barcan+Kirby – photo: Barcan+Kirby

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.

“We are thrilled to be part of this exciting collaboration and thank Barcan+Kirby for their support in bringing this unique exhibition to M Shed, which will offer fans of all ages a behind-the-scenes look at Aardman’s creative process and iconic characters.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Aardman (@aardmananimations)

“We hope this celebration, marking 50 years of a successful Bristol creative business, inspires young people across Bristol to unlock their own creative potential.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/50-years-aardman

Main photo: Aardman

Barcan+Kirby are member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network, an initiative to help businesses thrive while creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here. As part of their membership, businesses can publish member news stories like this. For more information, visit my.bristol247.com/better-business

Read next:

Our newsletters emailed directly to you
I want to receive (tick as many as you want):
I'm interested in (for future reference):
Marketing and Privacy Policy

Bristol24/7 will use the information provided on this form to send you marketing from Bristol24/7 and selected advertising partners. Your data will not be passed onto third parties. By completing this form, you are consenting to our use of your data for marketing purposes via email.


We will only use your information in accordance with our privacy policy, which can be viewed here - www.bristol247.com/privacy-policy/ - you can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected]. We will treat your information with respect.


We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

EATDRINK24/7 LAUNCH PARTY
CALLING ALL FOODIES!

Bristol's only truly independent food & drink guide is back, and we're throwing a party to celebrate on July 8 2026 at Wiper and True Brewery & Taproom, Old Market.

  • Exclusive collaborations from Bristol's favourite food vendors (you can't try these special dishes anywhere else)
  • Be the first to pick up your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 Guide
  • Music + great drinks
  • Each ticket includes a beer from Wiper and True, a special limited-edition can created just for the occasion.

One night only - don't miss out

Get Your Ticket

Related articles

You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Join the Better
Business initiative
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
* prices do not include VAT
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Enjoy delicious local
exclusive deals
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Wake up to the latest
Get the breaking news, events and culture in your inbox every morning

Are you sure you want to downgrade?

You will lose some benefits you currently enjoy.
Benefits you will lose: