THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S STORY
66 MAY 2017ANDREW LEVER is a British travel, fine art and documentary photographer. Find more of his
work at andrewlever.com.THE
HORSE
FESTIVAL
The Jerez Horse Fair takes place every May in the city of Jerez de la Frontera
in Andalucía. It celebrates flamenco, sherry and, above all, the region’s
much-treasured horses. I’ve been twice and would go every year if I could
because it’s such good fun. The fair began 500 years ago when farmers
gathered to sell animals and celebrate their sales with the local sherry; today,
it’s one massive party. People come from all over Spain to
the Parque González Hontaria, where there are events such as dressage,
a huge fairground and hundreds of bars and restaurants painted like historic
buildings, serving local food and wine. Everyone wears traditional clothing,
with the men dressed as aristocrats or Spanish cowboys (caballeros) and the
women in long flamenco dresses; they bring their prized horses to parade
around on. I’ve always loved horses, and when I first saw these ones I was
completely entranced – they looked like something out of a fairytale.
Spanish horses are special animals – beautiful, intelligent and brave, with a
lovely temperament. For me, they are the stars, but I also love observing the
spirit of the people. Everyone seems to be having the time of their lives, having
fun with their families and celebrating their history and culture. Jerez’s famous
fino sherry is always flowing, and all join in with the flamenco dancing, from
tiny children to grandmothers. The atmosphere is electric – you can arrive
in the morning and spend all day and night partying. I’ve never seen so
much colour in my life. It’s like being in the middle of a movie set among a
cast of thousands in beautiful costumes. In an age of cars and computers, the
horse fair is like a glimpse of a simpler way of life. It’s wonderful to see this
tradition being kept alive, with such pride.The Photographer’s Story
ANDREW LEVER
66 MAY 2017