James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Pātaka: Te Rauhuaki Ao

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.

→ MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST

↟ CLOSE BIO

Tuesday, July 3, 2018

Pātaka: Te Rauhuaki Ao

Rongo atua of Kumara, cultivated foods, part of a Pataka carved by James Cannon, Taumarunui NZ

Hand-carved pātaka by James Cannon at Ngā Hau e Whā Māra Kai in Taumarunui, created as a traditional Māori food store and heritage seed bank.

Haumia, atua of wild foods, part of a Pataka at the gardens, carved by James Cannon Taumarunui

Super proud today unveiling the Pātaka over at Ngā Hau e Whā Māra Kai, Taumarunui.

A massive thanks to the kaumātua and everyone who attended the dawn ceremony, as well as Pip, Pal, and the rest of the Ngā Hau e Whā team! Also, a huge thank you to Creative NZ for the funding.

This Pātaka is a fully functional food storage house and heritage seed bank for the gardens—tūturu Māori style. Such a privilege to carve the front of it!