Irish photographer Sarah Doyle has shared her compelling photographic series titled "The Age of Parade," which focuses on the majestic Irish Draft horse breed. This collection represents part of a larger ongoing project documenting various horse breeds that Doyle plans to compile into a book in the coming years.
Doyle's work is deeply rooted in Irish tradition and the special relationship between humans and horses. She draws inspiration from the Irish saying "capall le ceansacht," which translates to the belief that horses must be handled with gentleness and care. "I am very interested in the human-horse relationship and all the work being done to preserve this breed," Doyle explained about her motivation for the project.
"The Age of Parade" was photographed at the prestigious Dublin Horse Show, an annual event held at the RDS (Royal Dublin Society) in Ireland's capital city. This historic horse show represents one of the most significant equestrian events in Ireland, attracting participants and visitors from around the world. The venue provides Doyle with the perfect setting to capture the elegance and power of the Irish Draft horses in their element.
Doyle's connection to the Dublin Horse Show spans decades, having attended the event since childhood. However, it wasn't until 2018 that she began bringing her camera to document what she describes as this "very special spectacle." Her decision to photograph the event has resulted in a striking visual narrative that celebrates both the horses and the cultural heritage they represent.
The timing of Doyle's series coincides with a milestone for the Dublin Horse Show, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in August. This landmark anniversary adds historical significance to Doyle's documentation, as her photographs capture not just the horses themselves, but also a tradition that has endured for more than a century. Her work can be viewed at www.sarahdoylephotography.com, where visitors can explore her broader portfolio of equestrian photography.
