As an expert in the field of art history, I have spent considerable time studying and analyzing various art movements, with a particular focus on abstract expressionism. This influential movement emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily in New York, and it has had a profound impact on the trajectory of modern art. Let's delve into the characteristics that define abstract expressionism.

Abstractness: At the core of abstract expressionism is the departure from traditional representational art. Artists in this movement sought to express emotional and intellectual states through non-representational forms, which means their works do not depict recognizable objects or figures from the visible world. Instead, they focus on the visual language of color, line, shape, and texture to convey meaning.

Emphasis on Process: Abstract expressionists often emphasized the process of creating art as much as the finished product. The physical act of painting became an essential part of the artwork's meaning. This is evident in the drips, splatters, and gestural brushstrokes that are characteristic of many abstract expressionist paintings.

Spontaneity and Freedom: The movement was characterized by a sense of spontaneity and freedom in the creation of art. Artists like Jackson Pollock were known for their action painting, where the drips and splatters of paint were as important as the composition itself. This approach allowed for a more direct and visceral connection between the artist and the viewer.

Scale and Physicality: Many abstract expressionist works are large in scale, which was intended to engage the viewer both physically and emotionally. The size of the canvases often necessitates a more immersive experience, as viewers are invited to stand close and interact with the artwork.

Use of Color: Color in abstract expressionism is not just decorative; it is a primary means of communication. Artists like Mark Rothko used color to evoke emotional responses, creating large fields of color that seem to vibrate with energy.

Subjectivity: Abstract expressionism is highly subjective, with each artist's work reflecting their unique perspective and experiences. There is no single narrative or theme that unites all abstract expressionist works, which is part of what makes the movement so diverse and rich.

Influence of Surrealism: Some abstract expressionists were influenced by surrealism, particularly its emphasis on the subconscious mind and the use of automatic techniques to access it. This is evident in the dreamlike quality and the sense of the unconscious that can be found in some works.

Rejection of Tradition: Abstract expressionism was a reaction against the social and political climate of the time, as well as a rejection of traditional artistic norms. It represented a break from the past and a move towards a more individualistic and expressive form of art.

Global Impact: Despite originating in New York, abstract expressionism had a global impact. It influenced artists around the world and paved the way for other movements such as color field painting and minimalism.

In summary, abstract expressionism is a complex and multifaceted art movement that values abstraction, process, spontaneity, scale, color, subjectivity, and a rejection of traditional artistic conventions. It has left an indelible mark on the history of art and continues to inspire artists today.

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Indeed, the movement comprised many different painterly styles varying in both technique and quality of expression. Despite this variety, Abstract Expressionist paintings share several broad characteristics. They are basically abstract--i.e., they depict forms not drawn from the visible world.read more >>