Hei Matau

A master of materiality, James Russ has worked in a vast range of materials and techniques throughout his career, creating a unique genre of lighting design infused with fine-art influence. His visual sculptures serve beyond simple illumination, creating a sense of spacial intimacy whilst encapsulating cultural, natural and human stories. These sculptures have steadily evolved from studies in industrial design into bespoke fine art for an international audience.

James pulls from natural resources using weathered bronze and brass, cast and blown glass and heritage local timbers and veneers from around the world. Combining kevlar and carbon fibre composites and high performance alloys with cold cathode, LED, OLED and photoluminescence materials allows James to utilise the best in lighting technology. James’ extensive knowledge of Dali, DMX, and RF lighting control systems allow his work to be seamlessly integrated into both domestic and commercial applications.

James' design process involves in-depth consultation with clients, architects and designers to create a fusion of collective concepts and ideas. Collaborating with local industry leaders such as Warren and Mahoney, Peddlethorp, Cheshire and Bossley Architects has become typical practice for James, resulting in notable large-scale commissions such as the one million LED “Sky Garden” for the Millennium Hotel Group through to a single bespoke “Infinity” pendant installed in the Philippe Starck-designed super yacht, “Senses.” His work has been commissioned by Moët & Chandon at New Zealand Fashion Week and has been featured on The Block and Grand Designs. James has partnered with G4 Design Studio and Para Designworks to develop unique lighting designs for exclusive client projects. International work ranges from pendants sold into private collections in the UK, Germany, and the USA to public sculptures and exhibitions in Australia and the UAE.

James is proud to share his innovative approach to art and design, blending his sculptures with New Zealand’s unique cultural identity. Let James and his team add value to your next project.