James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Central Kids Kindergarten Waharoa, Taumarunui

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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Thursday, October 8, 2020

Central Kids Kindergarten Waharoa, Taumarunui

Hand-carved timber waharoa by James Cannon at Central Kids Kindergarten in Taumarunui, featuring kōwhaiwhai patterns inspired by the waiata "Anei te Moemoeā".

and-carved timber waharoa gateway by James Cannon at Central Kids Kindergarten in Taumarunui featuring intricate kōwhaiwhai patterns.

Very proud to have carved and erected this special gateway for Central Kids Kindergarten Taumarunui.

It was a fun creative journey. This was my first time carving tanalised pine and constructing each section out of multiple pieces to create the overall form, and it worked out really well!

The kōwhaiwhai design depicts the kindy's waiata, 'Anei te Moemoeā', representing the children's transformation through the centre.

A big thanks to everyone involved: Kaumātua Huitao, Kim Jones, the Central Kids staff, Mitre 10, and Creative Communities Scheme for their funding.