Aardman Animation

Name:	Aardman Animation
Date(s):	1972-ongoing
Profit/Nonprofit:	Profit
Country based in:	Great Britain
Focus:	animation
External Links:	Aardman.com
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Aardman Animations is a British animation studio known for its distinctive stop-motion clay animation techniques. Founded in 1972 by Peter Lord and David Sproxton, the studio has produced some of the most beloved animated characters and films in the world. The name "Aardman" was inspired by a character created by Lord and Sproxton during their early years.

History

Aardman Animations began as a small project by Lord and Sproxton to create animated films for television. The studio gained recognition with the creation of the character Morph for the children's program "Take Hart" in 1977. Over the years, Aardman has expanded its repertoire to include feature films, television series, and commercials. The studio's headquarters are located in Bristol, England. The name "Aardman" comes from a character they created in their early years, which they humorously referred to as a "failed superhero."

Notable Works

• Wallace & Gromit: Perhaps the most iconic characters created by Aardman, Wallace and Gromit have starred in several short films and a feature-length film, "The Curse of the Were-Rabbit," which won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
• Shaun the Sheep: A spin-off from Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep has become a beloved character in his own right, starring in his own television series and feature films.
• Chicken Run: Released in 2000, this feature film was a critical and commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing stop-motion animated film at the time. Aardman's first feature film, "Chicken Run," was co-directed by Peter Lord and Nick Park.
• Early Man: A 2018 feature film that explores the adventures of a prehistoric tribe.

Animation Techniques

Aardman is renowned for its use of stop-motion clay animation, a painstaking process that involves manipulating clay figures frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. The studio has also embraced digital animation techniques in recent years, blending traditional and modern methods to create unique visual experiences.

Connection with DreamWorks

In the early 2000s, Aardman Animations formed a partnership with DreamWorks Animation, a major American animation studio. This collaboration aimed to produce and distribute feature-length films, combining Aardman's unique stop-motion animation style with DreamWorks' resources and global reach.

• Notable Collaborations
  • Chicken Run (2000)
  • Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
  • Flushed Away (2006)

Despite the initial successes, the partnership between Aardman and DreamWorks ended in 2007. Differences in creative direction and financial performance led to the decision to part ways. Aardman continued to produce films independently, while DreamWorks pursued other projects.

Awards and Recognition

Aardman Animations has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, including several Academy Awards, BAFTAs, and Annie Awards. The studio's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a leader in the animation industry.

Cultural Impact

Aardman's characters and stories have had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring countless fans and creators. The studio's work is celebrated for its humor, creativity, and heart, making it a beloved institution in the world of animation.