James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ: ‘Tāne Nui-a-Rangi’ Hei Tiki

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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Wednesday, December 21, 2016

‘Tāne Nui-a-Rangi’ Hei Tiki

Hand-carved deer antler Hei Tiki pendant featuring pāua shell eye inlays, intricate pūngawerewere shoulder patterns, and a carved backplate.

Here is a special Hei Tiki pendant I carved for a friend. Highly detailed and taking many hours to complete, it draws heavy influence from Taranaki styles, predominantly the Ngāti Ruanui lineage, seen in its serpentine form and the pūngawerewere (spider web) surface designs on the shoulders.

On the backplate, 12 spirals symbolize the 12 Heavens Tāne climbed to reach Io, the Supreme One—the sacred journey where he received the name Tāne-nui-a-Rangi.

Medium: Deer antler, pāua shell inlays

Dimensions: 72 mm in length