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.

Tuesday, July 3, 2018

LED Manu Aute Project, Matariki (2018) – The Plan

It was a real privilege to once again work alongside Te Waka Pū Whenua Trust after the success of the previous year's Matariki light installation. This time, I was invited to develop the concept for something even more ambitious.

The vision was to create three futuristic illuminated Manu Aute (traditional Māori kites), combining contemporary lighting with Māori design and storytelling.

Each Manu Aute would represent one of the three fundamental states of existence within Mātauranga Māori: Te Ao, Te Pō, and Te Kore—concepts that speak to the journey of existence and the origins of all things.

These concept drawings became the blueprint for the project, with every pattern and symbol carefully considered before construction began. They marked the first step towards bringing this unique Matariki installation to life.

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