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.

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

'Rua te Ruru' Tekoteko

Hand-carved Rua te Ruru tekoteko by James Cannon, carved from reclaimed Taumarunui tōtara with pāua shell detail, representing the wisdom and guardianship of the Ruru.

There are many fascinating personifications of knowledge through Māori perspective. This tekoteko is a representation of Rua te Ruru, wisdom of the owl.

The Ruru (native New Zealand owl) is a kaitiaki of Te Pō, that is to say, guardian of the night, the unseen energies, realm of the departed.

The Ruru is a nocturnal bird, hunting at night in the thick dense forests of Tāne.

I made the carving from an old totara fence post from Taumarunui. I have left the base of the carving natural, whilst the carving itself has a Danish oil finish.

Medium: Heart Mountain Tōtara, Paua shell, Danish oil

Dimensions: 860mm x 160mm x 160mm
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