It all began … With a dream…and love!
Meet Hakora
I’m Hakora - The Creative Force Behind Iyanda El Designs and the world of Mammas’ Lil’ Witch
Born in South Australia, and shaped by a lifelong love of art, storytelling, and the quiet magic found in everyday life, my work is deeply rooted in imagination, nature, and meaningful creation.
I create through drawing, painting, photography, writing, and handcrafted details—turning ordinary moments into something memorable. Each piece carries a little of that story, whether through stationery, original artwork, keepsakes, or whimsical worlds inspired by folklore, fairies, and gentle wonder.
Beyond the business, much of my heart belongs to Grandmother Cottage—my 145-year-old traditional stone cottage and the surrounding land in rural South Australia. Its slow restoration, changing seasons, and quiet beauty continue to shape both my work and my sense of purpose.
This space is more than a shop. It is a reflection of creativity, legacy, and a slower, more intentional way of living.
Thank you for being here, and for sharing in the journey.
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.
Photo by Nathan Luke Whillas
Where Life Led Me
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 'Grandmother Cottage’.
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.
Capturing Wonder
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 Artist Behind the Magic
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 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 so, here it is — the story of my journey so far…
“Dare to dream…”