Goal V - Lucebert

A raw, expressive ink drawing by the Dutch CoBrA artist Lucebert, featuring a gestural figure rendered with spontaneous, direct lines.

Lucebert, born Lubertus Jacobus Swaanswijk, was a central figure in the Dutch post-war avant-garde. As a poet and painter, he operated within the CoBrA movement, which prioritised spontaneous expression and a rejection of traditional aesthetic constraints. This work, dated 26 February 1971, displays the raw, unrefined energy characteristic of his later practice.

The composition features a central, anthropomorphic figure with arms raised in a gesture that suggests either celebration or distress. The lines are fluid and direct, typical of his graphic output, where the speed of execution often dictates the final form. The figure is constructed from simplified, almost childlike shapes, yet the inclusion of a distinct, toothy grin adds a layer of unsettling humour. A small, circular form floats in the upper left, providing a counterpoint to the larger, more chaotic central mass. The base of the figure is anchored by rhythmic, vertical hatching, which contrasts with the stippled texture applied to the torso.

Lucebert often explored themes of human vulnerability and the absurdity of existence. His approach to drawing was immediate, avoiding the revisions or polish found in academic art. By stripping away unnecessary detail, he focused on the emotional resonance of the mark itself. The ink work here is sparse, allowing the negative space of the paper to function as an active component of the image. This print captures the artist's ability to balance playfulness with a darker, existential undertone. It is a clear example of his commitment to a visual language that remains accessible while resisting easy interpretation. The work reflects his background as a poet, where the economy of language is mirrored in the economy of his line.