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.

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Tangaroa, acrylic on plywood painting

Tangaroa acrylic painting by James Cannon, created on plywood with a colourful serpentine form, fish scale patterns, and symbolic designs for a kindergarten art project in Taumarunui.

This is an acrylic-on-plywood painting. I am currently creating a whole range of Atua Māori in a simple, fun expression for a local kindergarten, incorporating strong, rich mnemonics and symbolism that children can learn from.

This particular piece depicts Tangaroa in a serpentine form, with the drip shape between his tail reminding us of water. He is embellished in fish scales that offer him protection.

The blue colour represents the sea, as well as communication, creativity, and the arts. Tangaroa is pictured holding his own ancient symbol in the form of a tiki-wānanga, while the double spiral represents the continuous evolution of the physical and spiritual realms.
This is part of an ongoing volunteer project I have planned with Parone Street Kindy in Taumarunui.

Medium: Acrylic on plywood

Dimensions: 1.2m tall

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