About Aardman

For over 40 years, Aardman has entertained and charmed the world, creating much loved characters and bringing unforgettable stories to life. We live and breathe the values that underpin our creative processes and culture – integrity, excellence, humour, independence, collaboration and openness. We are committed to providing a workplace where people and ideas can truly thrive, and strive to have a positive impact on our local community.

Morph sitting on the number 1972

A bit of history

Peter Lord and David Sproxton began their animating partnership at school. In 1972 they registered the name Aardman Animations. After graduating, they moved to Bristol in 1976 where they produced their first professional production, creating Morph for the children’s programme 'Take Hart'.

Employee Owned

Aardman became Employee Owned in 2018, securing our ethos, creative values and independence for the future. Guided by the principle of keeping the company in the hands of those who helped build it, our partners work closely with the Exec Board to ensure Aardman provides a positive and thriving environment for everyone who works here to flourish.

Learn more

logo for Craft Your StoryCraft Your Story

We’ve built a community of animators, directors, writers, model-makers and more who are moulding the future of animation, and we’d love you to join us.

See our courses

Our People

From Peter Lord and David Sproxton’s tabletop beginnings, Aardman has grown into a major world-class studio with a hugely talented and passionate team working behind the scenes.

Meet the team
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Sustainability

Our Environmental & Sustainability Charter represents our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and environmental impact as a business.

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DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Our Diversity & Inclusion Charter is our commitment to building a workforce that is truly reflective of society, underpinned by the belief that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential in delivering on our mission: to create entertainment for all and to be the most inspirational animation company in the world.

Aardman and Bristol

Aardman is proudly based in Bristol, a UNESCO City of Film and a city with a rich creative culture. Co-Founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton first moved to Bristol in 1976 to produce their first professional production and never left. Aardman is now so deeply rooted in the city that it has become part of the studio’s DNA. Peter and David always embraced the notion of being helpful and supportive to the city. One of Aardman’s greatest achievements in Bristol is our involvement in Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, the official Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, which has raised in excess of £70 million since 1995. The charity has organised countless fundraising initiatives including three hugely successful charity art trails in Bristol.

Morph in Bristol
Aardman Bristol HQ
Aardman HQ
Aardman Aztec West studio
Nick Park
Wallace and Gromit sculptures
Shaun the Sheep sculptures