Here's why you will soon see Shaun the Sheep all over Manchester City Centre

Find the Flock is created by global art producer Wild in Art and Academy Award® winning independent animation studio Aardman.

Each brightly decorated sculpture stands at 160cm tall and has been individually designed by a national or international artist. Those that find the sculptures can find out more about the artists and enjoy a sheep joke at each find. Shaun the Sheep fans of all ages can collect a trail map from John Rylands Library or Aviva Studios and Find the Flock grazing between the two locations.

Brought to life by internationally acclaimed circus company Circa and Aardman, Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show makes its European premiere at Aviva Studios from 11 December – 4 January. Aardman’s classic, slapstick, comedy character Shaun the Sheep is combined with live circus performance, simultaneously blurring the lines between movement, dance, theatre and circus for a visual spectacle packed with wit.

John McGrath, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Factory International said: “Wild in Art’s public works create lasting memories in cities across the globe, including here in Manchester where we still enjoy Bee in the City at iconic locations across the city centre. Working with Wild in Art and building on our relationship with world-famous animation studio Aardman, Find the Flock is a joyful art trail bringing the excitement of Shaun the Sheep’s Circus Show out into St. John’s and Spinningfields. We regularly host free activity for families during the school holidays at our home in Aviva Studios, and this winter we’re thrilled to offer a fun adventure to have on your way to or from the venue too.”

Gillian Fletcher, Director of Estates and Creative, Form Property said: “Form Property as managing agents for Spinningfields and St. John’s are thrilled to be working collaboratively with Factory International, Wild in Art and Aardman to welcome this exciting activation to our communities. Find the Flock is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, spark creativity, and showcase the vibrancy of our neighbourhoods. We can’t wait to see everyone interacting with the installations and being part of the experience.”

Ngaio Harding-Hill, Head of Attractions & Live Experiences at Aardman said: “We are delighted to bring Shaun the Sheep to Manchester for the festive season. Find the Flock is a wonderful opportunity for fans of all ages to celebrate Shaun’s arrival ahead of his Circus Show premiere at Aviva Studios, and we can’t wait to see everyone join in the fun.”Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder of Wild in Art, said:“We're thrilled to be continuing our ongoing partnership with Aardman Animations through our Find the Flock trails, and to be able to collaborate with Aviva Studios again. We hope visitors will discover the joy of the trail and see how our incredible artists have brought this iconic and cheeky character to life.”