Hockney, Basquiat, and Still Headline Contemporary Art Evening Sale

David Hockney’s Nichols Canyon is among the highlights of Phillips‘ upcoming 20th Century & Contemporary Art Evening Sale. The painting illustrates Hockney’s daily drive from his home atop Nichols Canyon in the Hollywood Hills down to his studio. “I look down on Hollywood,” says Hockney about the commute with a smile, aware of the double meaning.

Abstract Expressionist Clyfford Still is also represented in this auction with a piece from his later career, PH-407. After spending 15 years in New York at the urging of Jackson Pollock and others, Still looked for a simpler life in Maryland. Paintings from this period, including PH-407, are noted for their heightened focus on two-dimensional figures. 

Jean-Michel Basquiat collectors will find the artist’s Portrait of A-One A.K.A. King offered in this sale. Produced in 1982, the year Basquiat joined the New York art scene, this portrait shows the artist incorporating his street art background into his early canvases. The work pays tribute to A-One, Basquiat’s friend and fellow street artist. Numerous graffiti tags surround A-One in this piece. Although these details may look impromptu, several layers of revisions on the canvas indicate Basquiat carefully chose and edited each tag. Those interested in this or any other piece can register to bid on Phillips’ website. Meanwhile, those interested in other upcoming contemporary art sales can browse more of Auction Daily’s previews.