MACKINNON and SAUNDERS: 30 years and beyond, Cosgrove Hall Archive

Lauriston Gallery, 19 Nov 22 - 11 Mar 23

Over the past 30 years Mackinnon & Saunders have brought stories to life through model making and animation production. The company was started in 1990 by Ian Mackinnon and Peter Saunders, whilst working as model-makers at the renowned animation studio Cosgrove Hall Films. Both received early recognition for their unique abilities - during this period, Ian Mackinnon created the models for Paul Berry’s short film The Sandman, which was nominated for an Oscar.

After leaving Cosgrove Hall in 1992, Peter and Ian seized the opportunity to start their own company specialising in making puppets for animation. Within three years Tim Burton contacted the company to work on his feature Mars Attacks!. Burton collaborated with Mackinnon & Saunders on a number of projects, creating some of the most distinctive stop motion characters of the last three decades including Corpse Bride and Frankenweenie. The company success stories extend to children’s TV in shows such as Bob the Builder and Raa Raa the Noisy Lion. These household names demonstrate their unique ability to respond to different directorial styles, genres and stories.

At the company’s core is a team of talented puppet-makers, sculptors, mould-makers and painters. Together, they carefully consider each aspect of the design including the mechanics of the skeleton, so that puppets can be moved seamlessly by animators. Creating models that are believable on screen with a range of expression is key to why the studio has attracted some of the best known directors in the filmmaking industry - Tim Burton, Wes Anderson, Guillermo Del Toro - who have all embraced stop motion animation.

The team’s success in the animation industry is a testament to their skill, artistry and continued love for the artform and persistent drive of the company. Their impact will be felt for many years to come.

Curator: Rosy Whittemore

Images by Jason Lock