James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: 'Tukutahinga' Wheku Mask

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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Monday, August 25, 2014

'Tukutahinga' Wheku Mask

Tukutahinga carved sculpture by James Cannon, created from native tōtara wood with pāua shell inlays and painted details representing balance, knowledge, and connection.

This piece is entitled 'Tukutahinga' referring to the synchronisation of the two hemispheres of the brain.

The white hues represent light and knowledge synchronising. The purple represents knowledge transfer, the Pineal gland, the centre of perception. The twelve white sections represent the twelve Heavens.

Medium: Carved from native Tōtara wood with pāua shell inlays and paint.