Alexia Shea

Lessons with the Alexia Shea Horsemanship program go far beyond holding the reins. The end goal of my program is to create a confident, independent, and capable rider. Students will understand how to tack up their own horse, how to read and understand horse psychology and behavior, and of course how to ride in such a way that students develop a beautiful relationship between themselves and their horse. Our lessons hit these essential points as the program goes on:

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  1. Safety and BasicsLearn what different parts of tack are and their function, how to tack up your horse, how to establish boundaries on the ground and how to understand your horse’s communication. Students will also be introduced to groundwork and understand how it affects riding.
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  2. Introduction to work in the saddleStudents will be introduced to how to mount their horse and basic cues. They will focus on understanding core stability, foot and leg placement, and how they will hold the reins. Rides are centered on creating a fluid connection where the horse responds to your breath and center of gravity.
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  3. Leveling upHere, we begin to move away from mechanical commands. Students begin to truly understand ‘feel’, and how to have a ‘conversation’ with their horse. Students will also begin to develop a higher sense of confidence at a walk, trot, and canter in the arena, with the goal being to move towards confident trail riders.

Whether you are looking for an editorial portrait session, a fashion campaign, or commercial content, we have a few horses available for photoshoots. You are welcome to bring your own photographer and creative team, and I offer photography as well. I have a degree in Film Studies, and have worked for years on film and photo sets as a director, cinematographer, photographer, and actress– so I understand all sides! Please contact me to inquire about different packages, as I am flexible to suit your needs.

Nestled in the heart of Latigo Canyon, Backbone Ranch serves as our private horsemanship sanctuary. Tucked away from the coastal highway, the ranch is surrounded by the dramatic, rugged peaks of the Santa Monica mountains, native oaks, and magical ocean views, offering an immediate escape from the pace of daily life.

The ranch features a 150-foot arena, a round pen, and direct access to miles of pristine mountain trails. It is a space designed for slow breathing, mindful observation, and genuine connection. Whether you are arriving for a private lesson, a trail ride, or an equine-assisted therapy session, Backbone Ranch provides the grounding space to start your journey.

Hi, I'm Alexia Shea. I’ve been working with horses since I was young, with the majority of my experience coming from real-life ranch work and long hours in the saddle. For the past few years, I’ve put myself through film school by working several days a week as a trail guide in the Santa Monica Mountains, and graduated in May of 2026. Alongside my work in the equestrian world, I also have roots in the creative arts– I often spend my free time making short films, pursuing a love of photography, freelance tattooing, painting, drawing, and have been a ballet dancer at a professional level for the past 14 years. I find a beautiful, natural overlap between the creative arts and horsemanship– both disciplines requiring attention to the present and a connection to a deeper spiritual sensibility simultaneously.

Bridging the gap between horsemanship and the arts is where my true passion lies. Being able to help people learn how to communicate with horses in such a way that feels almost artistic and spiritual is incredibly special and personal to me, and there is a real love and care I have for this profession. To me, horses are co-creators of space and partners in a quiet, mindful conversation.

You can find all of my program offerings below, and please don’t hesitate to explore the shop for my latest illustrations, prints, and custom crafts.