PURE
Sauðárkrókur, Iceland 2017
Before the first Vikings settled Iceland over a millennium ago, the stark volcanic island of rubble and ice had but a single land mammal, the arctic fox. In order for these early Icelanders to survive, domesticated animals such as sheep, horses and dogs crossed the Atlantic via longboat. As such, the vast majority of wildlife you see on the island are domestic. Sheep reign supreme, and are undoubtedly the lifeblood of the island nation, but it's the Icelandic horse that's most captivating.
At first glance, the Icelandic horse is noticeably smaller than your standard variety. Their humbler stature is due to the size of the Viking longboat, which allowed room for only the smallest of the Nordic horses. They're also physically stunning - with sun-bleached, wind-swept manes and glowing eyes. That beauty is no mistake either. Since Iceland's early settlers were most often wealthy chieftains, only the very best of their stock were selected to make the journey.
When equine sport grew in popularity, Icelandic horses became popular for their unique five-step trot, known as the 'skeið' or 'tolt', noted for its stability and aesthetics. It's said a rider can drink a stein of beer while in a full tolt and not spill a drop. As such, dressage interests abroad spread the species around the world to the point where the population of Icelandic horses on Iceland is exceeded by the population abroad. However, once an Icelandic horse leaves the island, it is illegal for it to return. As such, bloodlines have remained pure for over 1000 years.
I believe this is a special photograph. Achieving razor sharp images with wide angle lenses at point blank range lends to extremely low success rates, however, the magnificence can be undeniable. In most cases, I prefer to lay prone, where I'm able to frame my subject and dictate the composition. That technique is ideal, however, photographing wildlife in their natural habitats always has its variables. The variable in this instance was an electric fence - and a bloody effective one at that. So, in order to get the shot, I had to change the game plan up a bit. Laying prone was not an option as the fence was blocking the horses and a zap on the face was to be avoided. I needed to reach my hand ever steadily under the fence, careful to not make any contact, aim the camera to the best of my ability and snap a few shots before the horse’s curiosity wore off and the moment was over. The final results were a few jolting shocks and a tack-sharp image that elegantly captures the Icelandic horse's harmonious contradiction of ruggedness and grace. This picture was pure luck, but I am very proud to have taken it.
AVAILABLE SIZES
LARGE: 60" X 84"
STANDARD: 30" X 42"
AVAILABLE EDITIONS
LARGE: Edition of 14
STANDARD: Edition of 14