James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: Pīwakawaka

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, August 23, 2026

Pīwakawaka — New Zealand Fantail

Recycled metal pīwakawaka sculpture by James Cannon, made from reclaimed vehicle and machinery parts with painted lawnmower blades forming the tail, perched on an old tōtara fence post.

I’ve crafted this larger-than-life Pīwakawaka from reclaimed vehicle and machinery parts collected around our rural district.

Painted lawnmower blades form its bold black-and-white tail, while ball-bearing eyes give it an alert, cheeky expression. Perched on an old Tōtara fence post, it is my celebration of one of New Zealand’s most familiar little birds, full of character and proudly made from rural scrap.