Morph: The Claymation Icon that Helped Shaped British Animation

From Sidekick to Star: Morph’s Rise in the World of Animation

This little guy was fantastic for those who love Claymation, and segwayed into the Wonderful Take Hart. If you, like me, have never had a piece of art in The Gallery, I hope this acknowledges your artistic flair.

History

Morph, the much-loved clay animation character, first appeared on British television screens in 1977 and quickly became an iconic figure in stop-motion animation. Created by Peter Lord and David Sproxton of Aardman Animations, Morph was initially introduced as a sidekick character on the BBC children's programme Take Hart, hosted by artist Tony Hart. The character was designed to showcase the art of animation, using simple clay modelling to bring Morph’s charming, mischievous personality to life.

The debut of Take Hart on February 15, 1977, marked the start of Morph's journey to becoming a favourite with audiences. This led to the character gaining more screen time and eventually becoming a star in his own right. Morph had the unique ability to morph into various shapes, allowing for endless creativity in his interactions and adventures. His innovative Claymation style captivated both children and adults.

Throughout the 1980s, Morph appeared regularly on television, not just on Take Hart but also in his spin-off shows, such as The Amazing Adventures of Morph, which aired in 1980. This series allowed Morph to shine independently, further developing his character and world. Aardman Animations continued to explore the possibilities of stop-motion animation, with Morph serving as a foundational character that would later inspire more complex and ambitious projects from the studio.

In 1996, Morph returned to the spotlight with SMart, another BBC children's programme, where he once again played Tony Hart’s animated companion. The character's design and personality remained consistent even as animation techniques evolved.

In 2013, Aardman Animations launched a successful Kickstarter campaign to bring Morph back to life for a new generation. This resulted in a series of short episodes released on YouTube titled Morph: The Return. These latest episodes stayed true to Morph's original spirit while updating the production quality for modern audiences. The character's design and animation style were carefully preserved, ensuring that Morph retained his timeless appeal.

The characters

Morph is the series' titular character, a small, orange clay figure who can change shape. His ability to morph into various forms is central to his character and the series’ narrative. Known for his playful and mischievous nature, Morph communicates through expressive body language, endearing squeaks, and gibberish, making him a universally accessible character.

Another essential character is Chas, Morph's best friend and occasional rival. While Morph is good-natured and adventurous, Chas can be more mischievous and competitive, leading to playful conflicts. Their dynamic is a cornerstone of the series, providing much of its humour and heart.

Morph also shares his world with other clay characters, such as Nailbrush, a dog-like creature made from a brush, and Delilah, a pink female version of Morph. These characters add depth to Morph's world, bringing unique traits and interactions into the mix.

The plotlines

The plotlines in Morph are typically short, episodic adventures that revolve around the character’s ability to morph and their interactions with his friends. Episodes often feature Morph and Chas getting into trouble, competing in games, or exploring new environments. The lack of dialogue means that much of the storytelling relies on visual humour and physical comedy, a significant factor in the series' enduring appeal.

In many episodes, Morph’s ability to change shape is used to solve problems or escape from tricky situations, often with a humorous twist. The plots are light-hearted and focus on fun, creativity, and the joy of play, making them accessible to viewers of all ages.

Famous people

Morph has garnered a fanbase that includes several well-known figures. Nick Park, the creator of Wallace and Gromit, has often cited Morph as an inspiration for his work in stop-motion animation. Park joined Aardman Animations in the early 1980s and was influenced by Morph's simplicity and charm as he developed his iconic characters.

Tony Hart, the television artist who introduced Morph to audiences, was also instrumental in the character’s popularity. Hart’s affection for Morph was evident on screen, and he frequently mentioned how much he enjoyed working with the character.

Popular culture

Morph has had a lasting impact on British popular culture, particularly in children’s television. His iconic design and the simplicity of his claymation style have made him a symbol of creativity and imagination. Over the years, Morph has appeared in various forms of media, including advertisements and educational content, underscoring his broad appeal. One notable instance of Morph in advertising was his appearance in a series of commercials for Cadbury's in the early 2000s. These ads capitalised on Morph's recognition of a particular market.

Financials

Morph has been a financial success for Aardman Animations and the BBC, primarily due to his longevity and ability to engage new generations of viewers. While specific financial figures are not widely publicised, the character's repeated revivals and continued presence in merchandise suggest strong commercial viability. The successful Kickstarter campaign in 2013, which raised over £110,000, is a testament to Morph's enduring financial appeal.

Legacy

Morph's legacy is significant in terms of his influence on animation and cultural impact. As one of the earliest characters created by Aardman Animations, Morph laid the groundwork for the studio’s future successes, including Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep. His simple design and the creative possibilities offered by his morphing abilities have inspired countless animators and artists. Moreover, Morph's longevity as a character, surviving over four decades with minimal changes, speaks to his universal appeal and the timeless quality of his adventures. His impact on British television and his role in popularising claymation cannot be overstated.

Fun Facts

Morph was one of Aardman Animations' first creations, helping to establish the studio's reputation in the animation industry. The character was named Morph because of his ability to change shape, a play on the word "metamorphosis." Morph's return in 2013 was one of the first examples of a British television character being revived through a crowdfunding campaign.

…And Finally

Morph is more than just a character; he symbolises the creativity and innovation that defines British animation. From his humble beginnings on Take Hart to his modern-day revival, Morph has captured the hearts of audiences across generations. His simple yet versatile design, combined with the timeless appeal of Claymation, ensures that Morph remains a cherished figure in animation. As we look back on Morph's history, it is clear that his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for many years.

Memories of Morph: If you fancy sharing your memories, you know where I am.