James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Rongo-mārae-roa Tekoteko Trophy

James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ

My name is James Cannon, an award-winning New Zealand artist and sculptor based in Taumarunui. My journey began through Te Toi Whakairo, where I was traditionally trained by Kaiako Kenny Jones, before continuing my studies under Master Carvers Te Kuiti Stewart and Hohepa Peni at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, graduating with excellence in 2013. After years immersed in whakairo and creating public artworks, my artistic journey evolved into large-scale recycled metal sculpture and imaginative contemporary creations. Combining craftsmanship, storytelling, and imagination, I transform forgotten materials into unique artworks that celebrate creativity, connection, and transformation — continuing an evolving artistic legacy.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Rongo-mārae-roa Tekoteko Trophy

I carved this tekoteko for the Dinner at the Domain 2012 event placed in Taumarunui. It was a trophy for the Marae cook-off competition.

I choose to depict Rongo-mārae-roa because he is atua of peaceful pursuits and cultivated food, (mainly the kūmara).

I choose the pattern 'taratara a kai' because this surface design was traditionally used on Pātaka (storage houses). In this context, it represents plentiful kai (food).