Aardman Auctions Original Puppets for 50th Anniversary
Iconic claymation studio sells 250 items to fund talent development programs.
1Aardman's Milestone Celebration
British claymation pioneer Aardman marks its 50th anniversary by auctioning 250 original items through PropStore. The collection spans their entire filmography, from 1977's Morph to 2024's Chicken Run 2. Notably excluded are their upcoming Pokémon Tales series and Over the Garden Wall special. Proceeds will fund animation career development programs, aligning with the studio's commitment to nurturing new talent.
2Treasures Up for Bids
The auction features rare artifacts including original clay puppets of Morph and Chas from Aardman's first production. Highlights include props from Wallace & Gromit classics like The Wrong Trousers, recent works like Robin Robin, and Shawn the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom. Collectors can also acquire signed posters and storyboards, offering unprecedented access to stop-motion history.
3Creative Curation Process
Aardman's creative team personally curated the collection, ensuring each item represents pivotal moments in their animation legacy. Attractions director Ngaio Harding-Hill emphasized this as a 'unique moment to connect with fans.' The selection showcases technical evolution from hand-sculpted clay figures to modern hybrid techniques used in recent productions.
4Global Bidding Accessibility
Launching September 24, the auction accommodates international collectors through online, telephone, and absentee bidding options. This approach mirrors Aardman's global fanbase cultivated through decades of Oscar-winning shorts and beloved feature films. The event precedes their 2027 Pokémon Tales collaboration, maintaining brand visibility during production gaps.
5Educational Impact
Funds will establish skill development initiatives for aspiring animators, addressing industry barriers. Aardman plans workshops and equipment access programs, building on their legacy of pioneering stop-motion techniques. This aligns with UK's creative sector growth, where animation contributes £2.9 billion annually to the economy.
6Market Context
The auction coincides with rising memorabilia values, where original animation artifacts have appreciated 300% since 2010. Aardman's distinct style commands premium prices; a 2021 Wallace & Gromit storyboard sold for £18,750. This event may set new benchmarks for contemporary animation collectibles.
7Production Legacy
Spanning five decades, Aardman's filmography revolutionized stop-motion with 12 Academy Awards and 85 international prizes. Their Bristol-based studio maintains traditional techniques while adopting CGI, influencing studios like Laika. The auction offers physical artifacts from this digital-transition era.
8Cultural Significance
Beyond fundraising, this event preserves animation heritage. As streaming devalues physical media, Aardman reinforces tangible artistry's value. The auction coincides with renewed claymation interest, evidenced by Netflix's 2023 stop-motion content increase by 40%. This strategic timing maximizes collector engagement.
Original article: Gizmodo — Aardman Auctions Original Puppets for 50th Anniversary