AN Oscar nominee who runs a studio in Wotton has created a buzz in his latest project. 

Animator and director Will Becher is best known for his work on Aardman productions such as Wallace and Gromit, Shaun The Sheep, The Pirates! and Early Man. 

He even received an Oscar nomination in 2020 for his directorial debut A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon. 

He has recently created the animated titles for this years’ Manchester animation festival all from his home studio based in Wotton.

He and his partner Eve who helped design the festival mascot were commissioned back in summer this year to produce a series of films for the exhibition. 

Will animated the mini films using stop-motion animation with miniature props and a painted backdrop, shooting between 3 to 5 seconds per day on a digital camera. 

The films involve the comedy adventures of a bee whose wings are too small to fly. 

Will said: “I’m so excited to be working on the branding and animated titles for the Manchester Animation Festival 2023. 

“The MAF team has given me the opportunity to explore more of my own work and style and I can’t wait to share the results with this year's audiences on the big screen in November. 

READ MORE: Wotton Shaun the Sheep director chuffed with Oscar nomination

Gazette Series: Will Becher (right) pictured at the premiere of Shaun the Sheep Farmageddon, with co-director Rich Phelan (credit to Aardman Animations Ltd and Studiocanal SAS)Will Becher (right) pictured at the premiere of Shaun the Sheep Farmageddon, with co-director Rich Phelan (credit to Aardman Animations Ltd and Studiocanal SAS)

“As a long-time fan of the Manchester Animation Festival, it is a great honour to be involved in creating the look for the 2023 edition. 

“I love stop-motion animation, character comedy… and bees (the theme of the festival)… so bringing to life this year’s bespoke festival intro will be the perfect challenge. 

“The festival is the largest of its kind in the UK and sees international speakers and filmmakers in attendance including the Vice President of Disney International. 

For more information about Will’s work see here - www.WillBecher.co.uk 

For more information about the festival see here -  tinyurl.com/yc5fpaav