Behind the Plasticine at Aardman Studios

Earlier this month, year 10 and 11 students from Oasis Brightstowe were invited behind the scenes at Aardman studios. Eva, Lucy and Adrian welcomed us into an office unlike any other, where characters and colour rule and ‘everybody can be creative!’

Students got an insight into the world of animation by taking a tour of some of Aardman’s recent creations. As we explored, students mingled amongst film scenes and even posed alongside a vast collection of Bafta awards!

Once we’d entered the workroom, the Aardman team shared their unique pathways into a creative career – including the bumps in the road they faced along the way. Even though they played widely different roles within the team, Lucy, Eva and Adrian were united in their love of their favourite projects and characters and were keen to share their behind-the-scenes stories. However, on our visit a new set of characters took centre stage, courtesy of our talented students.

Adrian and Lucy guided us through the character development process to inspire a cast of new Christmas characters. Students began by mind-mapping their favourite parts of Christmas and using these to create some initial sketches. With ideas ranging, from grumpy brussel sprouts to blanket-wearing pigs, it was time to bring out the plasticine!

Animator Adrian shared his top tips to help students bring their characters to life. Students practiced using sticks to give shape and movement to the characters, with lively faces courtesy of an ‘eye-dabber.’ After Adrian’s ‘tinsel masterclass’ everyone’s creations were looking suitably festive. The final result was a wonderfully eclectic cast of characters.

As we said goodbye to the Aardman team, students shared that they now felt more confident about their creativity and full of ideas for their next creations. Perhaps we’ll see these characters again in a future Bafta-winning film!