It all began … With a dream…and love!
Meet Hakora: The Creative Force Behind Iyanda El Designs
Greetings fellow creative enthusiasts!
I would like to introduce myself.
I am Hakora, an Australian-born, mixed-media creative artist and my passion for the ‘craft’ knows no bounds.
When I’m not imagining, drawing, painting, sculpting, designing, photographing, writing and participating in all of those wonderful things, I am busy with my Tarot and energy readings, propagating all things green and restoring my 144 year old traditional stone cottage (and surrounding grounds) - in rural South Australia, Australia.
(You can follow more of those everyday adventures over on my blog.
Join me in celebrating the endless wonder of our imaginations and creativity.
As A Child
Embracing the Mystical Enchantment of Rural South Australia - Australia
I grew up near a quiet fishing village in rural South Australia. Nature was my playground, full of wonder and exploration. I felt a special connection to the world around me, sensing a magical energy in the trees and water. It was a feeling that touched my soul deeply.
Discovering the Magic of South Australian Countryside
In the South Australian countryside, I was entranced by nature's beauty. The winds whispered, clouds danced, and ancient secrets beckoned. Growing up, I felt a mystical aura surrounding me – every sound and sight held a tale.
As I matured, what once seemed elusive became clear. The 'magic' I felt was the blend of mystical energies with everyday life. It transformed the ordinary into something extraordinary, illuminating the familiar world in a new light.
In this discovery, I felt a deep connection to the core of existence. I realized that the wonder I experienced was not just imagination but the life force of the universe. It inspired a strong passion in me to explore and enjoy the mysterious charm that had fascinated me since childhood. Looking back on my early days surrounded by nature's magic, I understand that the enchantment was always a real and profound truth hidden from plain view.
The village and countryside still call to me with their mystical secrets, creating a timeless place where the spiritual and physical world come together in a dance as ancient as time.
Fast Forward
Life Between Worlds
Today, I find myself residing far from the remote fishing village of my childhood. I now navigate a dual existence, divided between the bustling city and my serene country retreat, lovingly known as 'The Cottage', but yet to be ‘formally’ renamed post restoration.
In a world of endless creativity, I feel at home - blending the concrete with the imaginative, living a rich and rewarding life. Every day is a chance to express my happiness and enthusiasm through various forms of art. Art is my passion, and through drawing, taking photos, and making music, I create boundless expressions. Using colors and images, I tell stories that touch the heart, encouraging others to view life from my perspective.
In writing, I explore emotions and thoughts through prose and poetry, venturing into new territories for inspiration. Different mediums blend to create a unique expression that reflects my true self. This creative space allows me to shape my reality and share the joys of a fully expressive life.
Photo credit Nathan Luke Whillas
Capturing the Magic of Microworlds and Beyond: A Photographer's Journey
Reflecting on my early memories, my father's passion for photography deeply inspired me. The sound of his camera, the smell of developing photos, and the amazing pictures he took influenced how I saw the world as a child. His skill in creating images sparked my interest in nature and photography. Though our subjects varied, his lasting influence remains a treasured gift to me.
I discovered my unique style through my love for nature's beauty. I am inspired by small details, vast landscapes, mysterious forests, and peaceful seascapes. Nature is my biggest passion and muse for photography. Nigel Danson and Mark Littlejohn are my role models in photography. Their talent, styles, and dedication motivate me, even though I know I can't reach their level yet. They are my mentors, though they may not know it.
With each photo I take, I aim to capture the beauty of nature and transport viewers to magical places. I'm thankful for my father's passion and my mentors who inspire my photography journey. Each image I snap honors both nature's charm, my father and their guidance.
The Art and The Artist
Since childhood, I have been drawn to drawing and painting - any type of artistic or creative pursuits. Despite no family background in art, my love for creativity naturally guided me to use pencils and crayons passionately. At just three years old, I started sketching fairies and gnomes, creating my own magical world. Though I'm no world famous artist, my unique style reflects my interpretation of the mystical world, bringing me great joy as I mirror my flaws in each piece.
The Magical Power of Creative Writing
In the world of creative writing, I craft imaginative stories that transport readers to magical realms. My writing journey started with sharing fantastical tales with my children, inspired by stories I heard as a child - bedtime stories from my relatives sparked my imagination, creating vivid worlds full of wonder and magic. My love of fantasy novels further inspired my ambitions.
As I embarked on my writing journey, I realized my goal was to spark wonder in others, especially my children. I crafted stories to inspire awe, hoping to unlock their creativity. Now, as time passes, my adult children still seek more tales to share with their own kids. This shows the lasting appeal of storytelling, connecting generations through imagination. I act as a bridge between reality and the fantastical worlds in my mind.
It's an honor to create interesting and exciting stories, giving life to the unseen and unlikely. In creative writing, turning impossibilities into possibilities is just a thought away.
And there you have it…the story of my journey so far.
Many highs and many lows, but a beautiful experience of life.
Thank you for joining me!
“Dare to dream…”