Her art focuses on capturing transient moments and time passing, exploring the uncertainty and beauty in the short-lived. The 'golden hour' plays an important role in the work. Known as the brief period after sunrise and before sunset when the sun casts a golden light, this reference has been utilised by artists for centuries.
Decaying natural objects are illuminated, falling and in flight. This imagery aims to breathe life into nature theoretically past its prime - to highlight value where existence is temporary. It also explores how we depict and remember that which is no longer.
Janet Hafoka is a graduate of the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Visual Arts (MSVA). She has participated in solo and group exhibitions and her images are held in collections throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
“I am a magpie when it comes to collecting things. The delicate skeletal leaves, seed pods and petals I photograph often come from explorations while walking. Others are dropped off on my doorstep by friends and neighbours who have seen their potential.
Time and reflection are integral in my art practice. Patience is required while waiting for the moment where nature provides just the right balance of cloud, light and breeze. I have lost many of the leaves I photograph as they are carried away by the wind into my garden. It used to frustrate me, but I have now learned to accept this as part of the process.
Everything I photograph is temporary, and I like that aspect. It adds something precious, which I am compelled to capture before it is no longer.”