James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Giant Tōtara carved 1935 Crown Coin 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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Sunday, January 2, 2022

Giant Tōtara carved 1935 Crown Coin Commission

Hand-carved 1935 Waitangi Crown sculpture by James Cannon, carved from a single piece of native tōtara and mounted on a black maire wooden base.

This unique commission was inspired by New Zealand's famous 1935 Waitangi Crown (5 shillings), widely regarded as one of the country's most iconic and collectible coins.

When I was first commissioned to carve it, my first thought was, "How am I going to do that?" Months later, after countless hours of carving and refining every detail, my plan came together.

Medium: Hand-carved from a single piece of native Tōtara, mounted on a steel rod with a native black Maire wooden base.

Dimensions: 650 mm diameter, 100 mm depth