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.

Sunday, January 2, 2022

'Unity Project' Waharoa at Te Awanui a Rua Trust

Scaled design plan for the Unity Project waharoa by James Cannon, showing the carved entranceway that would be created with local rangatahi in Taumarunui.

Here is my scaled plan for my upcoming Unity project. I'll be teaching a group of local rangatahi the carving and painting techniques involved as we construct the project. It's all about sharing the craft and passing on knowledge!

I'll carve the central koruru, representing Rangi and Papa, from Tōtara, while every other component will be crafted from treated pine, applying skills learnt from my previous waharoa.

I'm really looking forward to seeing this project come to life!

No comments:

Post a Comment

BIRDS / MANU B WHAKAIRO & CARVING W PUBLIC INSTALLATIONS & WORKS P ILLUMINATED / FUTURE WORKS I RECYCLED METAL SCULPTURE M EXHIBITIONS & AWARDS E