On the Beach near Suchumi, 1961

About the Work

This unusual self-portrait is programmatic for Tübke’s art. It depicts the artist from behind, observing lively activity on a beach. Or is he merely having a vision? The drawing is distinguished not by the realistic depiction of reality but by ‘tipping points’: At first sight, the fun-loving bathers look like a wild Carnival procession. The figures changing their clothes right next to the artist likewise merge to form a mysterious pictograph. Much of what we see has deliberately been left in limbo.