Better Business / Member news
Barcan+Kirby announced headline sponsor of exhibition celebrating 50 years of Aardman
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.
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
“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: