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.

Thursday, July 5, 2018

LED Manu Aute Project, Matariki (2018 - ongoing)

Illuminated Manu Aute installation by James Cannon featuring traditional Māori kite designs with hidden LED lighting for the Matariki celebrations in Taumarunui.Illuminated Manu Aute installation by James Cannon featuring traditional Māori kite designs with hidden LED lighting for the Matariki celebrations in Taumarunui.Illuminated Manu Aute installation by James Cannon featuring traditional Māori kite designs with hidden LED lighting for the Matariki celebrations in Taumarunui.

Lift off! The LED Manu Aute are finally flying!

This project is all about pushing my whakairo to the next level. The light gives each Manu Aute that spiritual ignition to take off, bringing the designs to life once darkness falls.
Each Manu Aute (traditional Māori kite) was built with two layers, concealing two 5-metre lengths of independently controlled LED ribbon between them. Hidden from the front, the lighting illuminates the whakairo kōrero from behind.

What makes the installation even more magical is that every kite cycles through its own colours independently, creating an ever-changing display of light and movement. I could stand and watch them for ages!

A huge thank you to the people of Taumarunui, Te Waka Pū Whenua Trust for making this project possible, and the Ruapehu Community Arts Centre for allowing the installation on their beautiful building to become part of the Matariki celebrations.
Matariki is a time of reflection, renewal, and looking ahead. I'm proud to have played a small part in bringing a little more light to our community!

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