Sculpture that invites prosperity into your life after 2020?

As a response to the global pandemic, the ensuing racial stigma against Asian communities, and the losses that people around the world have seen, these ceramic Pixiu sculptures arrive at the gallery inviting prosperity and protection into viewers lives.

Pixiu is a hybrid creature with an insatiable hunger for gold, jewels and money.  Playful and mischievous, these mythical chimeras are one of the five auspicious animals of traditional Chinese culture.  Pixiu is particularly auspicious for those who have had a bad year.

As 2020 passed its wave of uncertainty through us all, Pixiu came back from Eicholtz’s memories of travels through Asia.  Although not as well-known as guardian lions or foo dogs, these playful figures offered new hope and stimulating possibilities.  Each Pixiu pair took on lives of their own as layers of contemporary Australian culture began to contrast with the insatiable consuming that we were suddenly denied.  Pixiu embodied the joyful folly and excess of a bygone prepandemic era… a world we are quickly returning to.

As anthropomorphic money boxes, these lucky Pixiu gobble up good fortune and wealth for you and your home. All these creatures embrace our lucky multicultural country, embrace its folly and look toward a brighter, richer future…

Supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants.