Los Angeles Modern Auctions (LAMA)

This lot was donated by EC3 with proceeds benefitting Hollyhock House.

Commissioned by the Hong Kong Design Center, M+ Museum, and Culture Lab in 2018, the Year of the Dog sculpture is conceived as part of the new “Project Twelve” collection dedicated to the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac, with each animal to be designed by a renowned Chinese designer. The design for Year of the Dog aims to bridge the artistic traditions between China and the West. It’s named Rocky (translated phonetically as 樂犬 in Chinese), after the chiseled surfaces of the dog’s body that are inspired by the Chinese scholar rocks, while its overall proportion and articulation maintain the abstract sculptural sensitivity of modern and contemporary art. The small Rocky (measuring 3.25 in x 4.00 in x 4.3 in), cast in geopolymer black and white stone, makes reference to the sculptural carvings in imperial Chinese architecture. Rocky’s animated posture on the cushion adds a contemporary touch to the classic design.

EC3 is the Los Angeles-based, cross-disciplinary architecture and design practice founded by Edwin Chan, veteran Design Partner with Frank Gehry for over 25 years. Working nationally and internationally, the 11-year-old award-winning studio has developed a diverse range of cultural, commercial, workplace, urban design and institutional projects for visionary clients. EC3 is committed and passionate about the role of arts and culture in transforming cities and inspiring communities, to create a better and more sustainable future for all people!

Curated by Dung Ngo, design expert and Editor in Chief of AUGUST, this selection of works will benefit Frank Lloyd Wright’s historic Hollyhock House. Focused on architecture and architectural design, the remarkable range of furnishings, artwork, and objects reflect the vibrant design landscape of Southern California and includes contributions from influential figures and firms including Johnston Marklee, Kulapat Yantrasast, Christopher Norman, Ali Tayar, Edwin Chan, Design, Bitches, West of West, Hiroshi Clark, and more.