James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: 'Te Rau Aroha' Hei Tiki, a special commission

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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Monday, October 8, 2018

'Te Rau Aroha' Hei Tiki, a special commission

Hand-carved Tāne Nui-a-Rangi hei tiki by James Cannon, carved from deer antler with pāua shell inlays and mounted on native mataī wood.

A special commission and one of my most intricate carvings.

I carved ‘Te Rau Aroha’ in the Taranaki, Ngāti Ruanui style as a special graduation gift from proud parents to their daughter. As a taonga of boundless love, it stands as a lasting expression of their aroha.

Extreme detail and precision were required, the delicate spiral work on the arms measures approximately 10 mm in diameter, and the detailed eyes with pupils measure only 3 mm across!

Medium: Deer antler, native Mataī wood, pāua shell inlays

Dimensions: 72 mm in length