Color Commentary

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We all love seeing the beautiful and stunning colors and markings come to life on our favorite Breyer models. From a deep mahogany bay to a champagne tobiano, we admire the variety of colors and patterns that our horses can come in. However, did you ever think about the science behind all those beautiful colors and markings? Today we would like to introduce you to someone who is quite familiar with the genetics of horse coloring and even has her own blog to share her knowledge on all the different colors!

Meet Lesli Kathman!

Lesli is quite the artist when it comes to creating and sculpting models and has been a staple of Breyer events for years. But what sets her apart is her incredible knowledge of horse colors. During her artistic journey creating model horses, she became interested in making them look as realistic as possible. She began researching the patterns, colors, and genetics of horses to help make her work stand out. Lesli devoured article after article to expand her knowledge on the genetics behind color and patterns in animals, especially horses. Eventually she started teaching and talking about it, sharing her knowledge with others.   In fact, she has presented as a part of the BreyerFest seminar series several times!

While she is not a geneticist by trade, Lesli has done years of personal research and loves science.  In 2009 she began work on what was intended to be a small guidebook for artists covering the colors and patterns found in different breeds. The project grew in scope, and in 2012 the first volume of The Equine Tapestry was published. Two years later a second book was published and her blog grew in popularity. The blog, which we’ve linked above, focuses on the coat color genetics in horses, with the occasional detour into breed history, genetic preservation, and other domestic animals.

A perfect fit with this year’s BreyerFest theme, Horse of a Different Color, Lesli will be sharing her knowledge of horse colors and genetics during her seminar that all ticket holders will have access to!  Make sure to go and check out her presentation, Color Commentary, about the genetics behind the magnificent colors of our four legged friends!

All ticket holders have access to this year's amazing line of Seminar presenters, including Lesli's.  If you haven't grabbed your tickets yet, get them here!