Abstract expressionism was a major movement in 20th century art that developed in the 1940s and 1950s. It was characterized by its use of expressive brushstrokes and gestural forms. Abstract expressionism was a reaction against the formalism of cubism, and it had a major impact on the course of 20th century art.
Abstract expressionism was inspired by cubism and surrealism, two earlier movements in modern art. Cubism was developed by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, who used geometric shapes and abstract forms to represent objects in their work. Cubism was characterized by its rejection of traditional perspective and representation, which was seen as an outdated way of seeing reality. This rejection made it possible for artists to express themselves freely through their work without having to rely on realistic representations or subject matter.
Surrealism was also an important influence on abstract expressionism because it emphasized the role of imagination and intuition in creating art. Surrealists believed that the unconscious mind could reveal truths about reality that could not be perceived through reason alone, so they sought out new ways of expressing themselves through painting (and other mediums). This idea influenced many artists who later became known as abstract expressionists because they sought new forms.
