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Expressionism

Definition

Expressionism is an artistic style that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by distorted and exaggerated depictions of emotions and subjective experiences. It aims to evoke strong emotional responses from viewers.

Analogy

Imagine watching a horror movie where the scenes are filled with eerie lighting, grotesque creatures, and intense music. The visuals are unsettling and provoke fear or discomfort within you. This is similar to expressionism because it uses exaggerated forms and colors to convey intense emotions.

Related terms

Cubism: Cubism was an avant-garde art movement pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. It depicts objects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously, breaking them down into geometric shapes.

Surrealism: Surrealism is an artistic movement that sought to unleash the power of imagination by combining dreamlike elements with reality. It often features unexpected juxtapositions and irrational imagery.

Abstract Expressionism: Abstract Expressionism is a post-World War II art movement characterized by spontaneous brushwork, large-scale canvases, and non-representational imagery aimed at expressing emotions or ideas rather than depicting recognizable objects.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.