Inside Aardman Exhibition at Young V&A Captivates Adult Audiences
The Young V&A in Bethnal Green has launched a delightful new exhibition titled Inside Aardman: Wallace & Gromit and Friends, which is running until 15 November 2026. This exhibition celebrates the beloved British stop-motion animation studio Aardman, known for iconic characters like Wallace and Gromit, and has been rated 4 out of 5 stars. Interestingly, the opening weekend saw a sold-out crowd composed largely of adult visitors, with around 95 percent being child-free east London creative types, despite the exhibition being nominally aimed at children aged eight to 14.
Why Adults Are Flocking to the Exhibition
Aardman was founded in 1972, and its totemic animator Nick Park joined in 1985, with his first Wallace and Gromit film, A Grand Day Out, released in 1989. This long history means that Aardman has been a part of most British adults' lives for decades, far longer than the target age range. The exhibition's appeal to adults is evident in the early ticket sales, which have skewed the demographics, though it is expected that more children will attend as the run progresses. Inside Aardman offers a mix of nostalgic paraphernalia for adults and hands-on activities for younger visitors, ensuring something for everyone.
Exhibition Highlights and Features
The exhibition eschews hagiography and biography, focusing instead on the art and process of stop-motion animation. Key highlights include:
- Original Models: Fascinating and charming displays, such as the gargantuan pirate ship from Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! and versions of Wallace & Gromit's Were-Rabbit that reveal its robot skeleton. These models are surprisingly large, with intriguing details like painted-over lentils used as rivets on spaceships.
- Educational Elements: A strong emphasis on explaining Aardman's processes, including how claymation works. Even in the digital era, each animator produces only six seconds of animation per day, highlighting the meticulous craft involved.
- Interactive Zone: An area where visitors can create their own stop-motion films, which is particularly popular with children. On busy Saturdays, there may be a wait, but adults can often find spots due to the initial low turnout of kids.
- Screening Area: A sitting space with a large screen showing highlights from Aardman's back catalogue, offering a chance to relax and enjoy classic animations.
Multigenerational Appeal and Visitor Experience
The exhibition's multigenerational appeal is a key strength. While adults appreciate the nostalgic models and behind-the-scenes insights, children are enthralled by the interactive film-making opportunities. For instance, many kids were more excited about downloading the free Aardman app to continue creating at home than watching the old films. This balance makes Inside Aardman a unique and engaging experience for all ages.
Practical Details for Visitors
The exhibition is located at the Young V&A on Cambridge Heath Road in London, with easy access via the Bethnal Green Tube station. Tickets are priced at £11, and the exhibition is open daily from 10:00 AM. Visitors can expect a blend of entertainment and education, with ample opportunities to explore the world of stop-motion animation up close.
In summary, the Inside Aardman exhibition at the Young V&A is a must-visit for fans of animation, offering a rare glimpse into the studio's creative processes while celebrating its enduring legacy. Whether you're an adult reminiscing about childhood favorites or a child discovering the magic of stop-motion for the first time, this exhibition promises a memorable and inspiring experience.
