Anastasia Khlebnikova: Breathing Life into Miniature Horses
In the world of equine art, few names are as captivating as Anastasia Khlebnikova.
At just 27 years old, this talented Russian artist has carved out a unique space for herself by giving life to miniature equine sculptures through her masterful use of light, shadow, and color.
Born in a small coal-mining town in Siberia, Russia, Anastasia’s journey into the equestrian art world is a story rooted in family, passion, and perseverance.
Her early fascination with horses came from her mother, while her artistic spark was passed down by her grandmother—who raised seven children and inspired creativity in her 15 grandchildren.
Despite modest means, Anastasia’s mother wholeheartedly supported her daughter’s dual passions for horses and art. “Everything started with a small gift,” Anastasia recalls—a black Mustang figurine from Schleich. That simple toy ignited a lifelong love.
As the collection grew, so did Anastasia’s creativity. At just 12 or 13, she began posting photos of her models online. With few images to share, she started crafting stables and tack herself, taking photography lessons to improve her visual storytelling. Her dedication quickly earned her recognition in Russia’s model horse community.
Today, Anastasia Khlebnikova, known online as @modelshess, is an equine artist celebrated for her exceptional ability to transform miniature horse sculptures into lifelike works of art.
Through meticulous painting techniques and a deep understanding of equine anatomy, she captures the essence of various horse breeds, creating pieces that resonate with collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.
From Siberia to St. Petersburg: The Artistic Journey
Still, it wasn’t until she moved to St. Petersburg in 2017 that Anastasia truly found her artistic voice. Renting a flat with a fellow painter—specialized in aircraft and tanks—she was introduced to airbrushing. With a gifted airbrush and compressor, she created her first true painting. It was a turning point.
Today, Anastasia’s work stands out for its depth, realism, and expressive flair. She bases every piece on real photographs of horses, ensuring breed-specific accuracy in coat color, patterns, and texture. Her deep understanding of anatomy and movement gives her painted sculptures a lifelike quality rarely seen in the miniature world.
Her works, often shared on her Instagram, showcase a range of breeds, from the striking black Mustang to the elegant Friesian. Each piece reflects her dedication to realism and her deep connection with the subjects she portrays.
Influences and Inspirations
While Anastasia draws inspiration from various artists, she also finds influence in Orthodox iconography. The transition from dark to light in these icons has shaped her approach to painting, particularly in rendering the textures of manes and tails. This blend of artistic traditions enriches her work, adding depth and spiritual resonance.
Through her online presence, Anastasia has built a global community of collectors and admirers. Her work not only highlights the beauty of horses but also serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the arts.
For a closer look at her creations, visit her Instagram: @modelshess.
For inquiries: modelshesshop@mail.ru
