News / Aardman
Aardman’s 50th birthday to be marked with museum takeover
M Shed will host a major Aardman retrospective in 2026 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of our city’s most famous exports.
Following in the footsteps of Banksy when he took over the museum for an exhibition in 2009, Aardman treasures will also be hidden throughout Bristol Museum.
‘Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 Years of Aardman in Bristol’ will open at M Shed in summer 2026.
Aardman’s head of attractions & live events, Ngaio Harding-Hill, 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.”
Bristol Museums head of culture, Philip Walker, added: “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.”
Main image: Aardman
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