James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Tāne-nui-a-Rangi Tokotoko (Walking stick)

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, December 12, 2020

Tāne-nui-a-Rangi Tokotoko (Walking stick)

A detailed hand-carved Tōtara wood tekoteko figure of Tāne-nui-a-Rangi at the top of a tokotoko walking stick, set against a clear blue sky.

I carved this tekoteko depicting Tāne-nui-a-Rangi, the bringer of knowledge who ascended to the heavens. into a traditional tokotoko (walking stick).

Flowing down the rest of the stick is a classic Raperape pattern featuring 12 double spirals, symbolising the 12 levels of the heavens (Ngā Rangi Tūhāhā). It was quite a technical feat to pull off, but the Tōtara wood carved beautifully, and I'm really happy with how the final piece turned out.