James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Taumarunui Town Sign

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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Friday, July 30, 2021

Taumarunui Town Sign — Macrocarpa Carving, 2021

James Cannon standing beside the carved Macrocarpa Taumarunui town sign, 2021

I carved these three Macrocarpa beams during lockdown, so I had plenty of time to do it thoroughly! They came out really well. I carved the TAUMARUNUI lettering deeply into the timber after working the whole surface in a sort of scalloped, mamaku-inspired pattern. It was great to finally see all three beams up in place — a proud moment!