500 horses-500 shipwrecks-500 year history
Full Episode Breakdown:
In this captivating episode of NEWHD Guest DJ, Zach Martin welcomes Roberto Dutesco, renowned photographer and artist, known for his incredible work capturing The Wild Horses of Sable Island. This isn’t just an ordinary podcast episode — it’s a rich blend of conversation, music, and inspiration as Martin and Dutesco delve deep into the story behind these magnificent horses and the artistic journey that brought them to the world’s attention.
Roberto Dutesco’s connection to The Wild Horses of Sable Island began over THREE decades ago when he first ventured to this isolated spit of land off the coast of Nova Scotia. Sable Island, often referred to as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” is home to a small herd of feral horses, believed to have arrived through shipwrecks centuries ago. In their conversation, Dutesco shares how these wild, untamed horses have lived without human intervention, thriving on an island devoid of trees and fresh water except for rainwater ponds.
The photographer’s passion and reverence for these creatures are palpable as he speaks to their endurance, strength, and beauty, which he has spent 30 years documenting. His work on Sable Island has produced a stunning array of black-and-white photographs that have been exhibited worldwide, allowing people to glimpse a part of nature rarely seen.
Martin skillfully guides the conversation, weaving in musical interludes that resonate with the themes of wildness, freedom, and survival. The playlist for this episode is a carefully curated selection of tracks that echo the spirit of Sable Island’s horses, starting with Def Leppard’s Photograph, a song that speaks to capturing fleeting moments — much like Dutesco has done with his photography.
Music and Themes
As the conversation unfolds, the playlist underscores the themes of wildness and resilience. One of the standout tracks is The Rolling Stones’ Wild Horses. This classic tune perfectly complements the discussion, as it metaphorically reflects both the freedom of the Sable Island horses and their isolation in the untamed wilderness. Dutesco reflects on how the song’s lyrics capture the essence of what he witnessed on the island — wildness that cannot be tamed or controlled.
Next, U2’s Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses brings a deeper, more contemplative mood to the episode. Martin and Dutesco exchange thoughts on the symbolic connection between these horses and human freedom, touching on themes of liberation and survival against the odds. The raw emotion of this song ties beautifully into Dutesco’s experience of observing and photographing the horses in their natural habitat — creatures who embody a spirit of independence and untamed beauty.
Transitioning into another musical highlight, Pink Floyd’s Money adds a provocative twist to the dialogue. Here, the conversation turns towards the cost of conservation and how efforts to protect Sable Island’s ecosystem are vital. Dutesco discusses the need for balance between nature and humanity, emphasizing that the island is not a place for human exploitation but rather a rare sanctuary where nature reigns supreme.
Finally, America’s A Horse with No Name fittingly closes the episode, providing an atmospheric reflection on the unknown and the untamed. The horses of Sable Island, much like the nameless horse in the song, symbolize the mysteries of nature that can never fully be understood or controlled by man. This track, with its wandering melody and lyrics, beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the episode.
500 horses 500 shipwrecks and 500 years OF known history
Roberto Dutesco’s The Wild Horses of Sable Island delves into a 30-year artistic journey, capturing the untamed beauty of a small but resilient herd of wild horses that have roamed Sable Island for over 500 years. Located off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada, this remote and isolated strip of land is steeped in maritime lore, with over 500 documented shipwrecks dotting its history. These wild horses, cast ashore or abandoned by sailors from some of these wrecks centuries ago, have miraculously survived in an environment devoid of human intervention, making Sable Island both a sanctuary and a symbol of resilience.
Dutesco’s photography showcases not only the stark, haunting beauty of the island’s rugged landscape but also the remarkable survival of these 500 horses, who thrive on little more than grass and rainwater ponds amidst a barren, unforgiving environment. Through his lens, he captures the harsh yet elegant existence of these creatures, whose lives have intertwined with Sable Island’s storied past.
The website offers a visual and emotional journey, immersing visitors in Dutesco’s work and deep passion for documenting this unique natural wonder. It reveals the untouched, raw majesty of nature, connecting viewers to the island’s storied history and the wild resilience that defines its iconic inhabitants.
Founded in 2019, Sophia’s Mission is a registered 501(c)3 organization committed to creating employment opportunities for Autistic individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans in the dynamic fields of audio, radio, and media. By partnering with NEWHD Media, Sophia’s Mission has become instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusivity across these industries.
This partnership is embodied in the iconic stations NEWHD New York, “Where Rock Lives,” NEWHD Los Angeles, “LA’s Rock and Pop,” and Veterans Classic Rock. Available on platforms like the NEWHD Radio App, Audacy, TuneIn, and Apple Music, these stations offer listeners a unique experience while providing job opportunities to individuals who face barriers in traditional job markets.
You can support Sophia’s Mission by sharing their impactful journey and downloading the NEWHD Radio App to listen to NEWHD New York and NEWHD Los Angeles. Together, we can promote inclusivity in the audio industry. Plus, with seamless integration into Apple CarPlay, it’s easier than ever to enjoy great music while supporting an important cause. Let’s work together to amplify the voices that need to be heard!
