James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Milling Tōtara for the Upcoming Pātaka Project

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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Saturday, January 20, 2018

Milling Tōtara for the Upcoming Pātaka Project

James Cannon and others milling a large Tōtara log with an Alaskan mill in a valley near Taumarunui, preparing timber for the carved Pātaka frontage at Ngā Hau e Whā Māra Kai.

This was a really special experience. After karakia and a blessing from the local kaumātua, we milled this beautiful Tōtara log on site, just up the road from Taumarunui.

The Alaskan mill worked a treat, and the saw cut through the Tōtara like butter. This was the beginning of the carved Pātaka frontage I had designed, I can’t wait to get some of these beautiful slabs back into my shed and start carving. Wahoo!

A special thanks to Pal Toroa from Ngā Hau e Whā Māra Kai, pictured on the left, who made it all happen.