Adobe MAX 2025 Creativity Award Honoree — Young Creator Motion

Anastasia Rykova

VisDev and 3D artist

The Tale of Two Cruel Rulers

The Tale of Two Cruel Rulers is a 3D animated short film, an anti-war statement presented as a cautionary tale. The story follows two rulers who, after causing a deadly war, fight over their peasants’ bones to decide who will rule a lifeless kingdom. It's a personal reflection on grief, war, and the absurdity of power-seeking.

Artist bio

Anastasia Rykova is a VisDev and 3D Artist working in the animation industry. Coming from a Fine Arts background, she views animation as one of the most powerful tools for self-expression.

With a degree in Computer Animation from Ringling College of Art and Design and professional experience as a VisDev Artist and 3D Designer, she often acts as a bridge between the 2D and 3D departments. Her portfolio includes roles as an Associate Art Director/VisDev Artist at Gasket Studios, 3D Artist and Cinematics Designer at Air A Med, a workshop with Disney Live Entertainment, mentorships with Women in Animation and CTN.

Her debut film, The Tale of Two Cruel Rulers, had a successful festival run, screening at over 20 film festivals including the Oscar-qualifying ones, and is planned for public release in November 2025. Looking ahead, she hopes to take on more projects as a 3D Artist and Art Director in commercial animation.

Team member names and roles

  • Voice Actress: Riley Wilson
  • Sound Design & Composer: Jérémy Ben Ammar
The film: The Tale of Two Cruel Rulers
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Still image shows two rulers.
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Still image shows daggers and coins flying through the air.
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Still image shows ruler with peasant bones.
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2D-to-3D process image shows embroidery and costume designs.
Scene from film shows peasants bones.