Aardman Animations, the studio behind Wallace & Gromit and Chicken Run, has confirmed it is preparing to explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in its production process. The studio’s co-founder, Nick Park, said that Aardman is open to adopting the technology but will do so cautiously.
Wallace and Gromit creator says Aardman Animations will be ‘cautious’ while integrating AI
Wallace and Gromit creator Nick Park has opened up about how AI will influence the future productions of Aardman Animations. The co-founder stated that the studio will explore how the technology could fit into its workflow.
Speaking to Radio Times, Park reflected on earlier technological shifts that once raised concerns in the animation landscape. He recalled the release of Toy Story in 1995, saying, “When Toy Story came out, we thought, ‘How long have we got?’ But we’ve managed to survive CGI.”
He added that interest in handcrafted stop-motion has grown over the years, noting, “In fact, there’s been a resurgence of interest over the years in our stop motion animation.” Although the studio incorporates CGI when needed, Park noted that AI “is a whole new thing.” He added, “Obviously, a lot of people will be fearing for their jobs.”
Park explained the studio’s current stance, noting, “We want to embrace the technology and find in what ways it’s going to be useful to us, maybe to do animation a bit quicker, but we’re going to be very cautious not to lose our values.” He stressed that clay animation remains important to Aardman’s identity, describing it as the company’s USP. “The clay is our USP, and we pride ourselves in that. Authenticity is the most important thing. It’s where the charm is.”
Aardman, best known for Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run, and Flushed Away, recently released Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. The studio’s next feature, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, is slated for release in 2026.
Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on ComingSoon.
