Irish photographer Sarah Doyle has shared her compelling photography series titled "The Age of Parade," which focuses on the majestic Irish Draught Horse breed. The series represents a significant portion of her larger ongoing project dedicated to documenting this particular horse breed, which she plans to compile into a comprehensive book in the coming years.
Doyle's artistic vision is deeply rooted in Irish tradition and the profound connection between humans and horses. She draws inspiration from the Irish saying "capall le ceansacht," which translates to the belief that horses should be handled with gentleness. This philosophy underlies her entire photographic approach and reflects her fascination with the horse-human bond that has been cultivated over generations.
The photographer's work particularly emphasizes the dedication and effort invested in preserving the Irish Draught Horse breed. Through her lens, Doyle captures not just the physical beauty of these animals, but also the cultural significance they hold in Irish heritage and the ongoing work of those committed to their conservation.
"The Age of Parade" series was photographed at the prestigious annual Dublin Horse Show, which takes place at the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) grounds in Ireland's capital city. This renowned equestrian event has become a cornerstone of Irish sporting and cultural life, attracting visitors from around the world each year.
Doyle's connection to the Dublin Horse Show spans decades, as she has been attending the event since childhood. However, it wasn't until 2018 that she began bringing her camera to document what she describes as a "very special display." Her long-standing relationship with the event has given her unique insight into its traditions and significance.
The timing of Doyle's project coincides with a historic milestone for the Dublin Horse Show, which celebrated its 150th anniversary this past August. This landmark anniversary adds particular significance to her photographic documentation, as it captures a moment of both celebration and continuity in Irish equestrian tradition. Doyle's work can be viewed on her professional website at www.sarahdoylephotography.com.
