Auckland-based photographer Helen Bankers has always been attracted to the natural world. Bankers lives with her husband and daughter in Auckland’s Eastern suburbs. Outside of her magazine and commercial projects, she can be found in her home studio studying flora and fauna.

Her floral still lifes focus on subtle variations of light and texture. Her study of flora has also led to her discovery of some of the historical and symbolic uses of flowers.  Featuring Anemones, Cymbidium Orchids, Hellebores and Tulips.

Bankers’ recent, dark botanical studies reference the still life paintings of the Dutch Old Masters of the 17th century. Having recently re-interpreted these images into prints on velvet and linen, Bankers has added texture and lustre to her textile-based Push Play pieces with layers of lacquer and varnish.