Stop-Motion Animator Richard Haynes Returns to AUB as Industry Patron

Haynes, whose career spans iconic productions such as Postman Pat, Shaun the Sheep, and Little Robots, began his journey at AUB (then Arts Institute Bournemouth) and has now come full circle. His passion for animation, ignited by 1980s series like Danger Mouse, led him to a pivotal chance encounter at the Annecy Animation Festival, which resulted in a job offer from Cosgrove Hall. This led to five years animating beloved classics before he joined Aardman Animations in 2009.

At Aardman, Haynes contributed to the Oscar-nominated feature The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! and recently completed work on the latest Shaun the Sheep feature film, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, in May 2026. He is currently involved in developmental work on another project. His contributions to the new Shaun film have earned him consideration for ‘Best Character Animation – Feature’ at the upcoming Annie Awards.

Beyond his film work, Haynes has dedicated years to writing an academic book on the history of Cosgrove Hall, set to be published by Bloomsbury. He also initiated a project at AUB to digitally preserve and reanimate lost 1980s Wind in the Willows puppets, enlisting legendary actor Sir David Jason to reprise his role as Mr. Toad.

Having previously lectured at AUB for over a decade, Haynes champions the university's emphasis on fundamental drawing skills and physical puppet performance. He advises students to embrace flexibility, engineer their own opportunities, and focus on their unique artistic identity, rather than comparing themselves to others.

As Industry Patron, Haynes will lead masterclasses and campus sessions, sharing his extensive studio experience with current students. He believes the tangible, handcrafted nature of stop-motion animation holds a special appeal for audiences and remains a vital art form.