Altrincham-based animation studio Mackinnon & Saunders have launched an exhibition of some of their most iconic puppets and models – including those used in Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride and Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr Fox – at the arts venue Waterside in Sale.
Celebrating 30 years in the industry, the company is responsible for the design of some of TV and film’s best-loved characters. The exhibition will offer an insight into the genius of the Mancunian animators and model-makers who brought these to life, through a series of behind-the-scenes photographs.
The studio, founded by Ian Mackinnon and Peter Saunders, was launched to success through their collaboration with Tim Burton. The director first partnered with the studio for his feature film, Mars Attacks!
Burton said of the duo: “There was no question in my mind that these were the guys to do it… They do such beautiful work, very sensitive and textural; you really do believe the characters are alive”.
The exhibition will include an original puppet and models made by Mackinnon & Saunders for Guillermo del Toro’s new feature film Pinocchio, which will be on display for the very first time.
The exhibition is free and running until Saturday 25 February 2023 at Waterside’s Lauriston Gallery in Sale, Trafford.
Feature image: a puppet from Corpse Bride © Jason Lock Photography
