Expressionism was an artistic movement that emerged in Europe in the early 20th century. Its aim was to express the emotional and psychological states of the artist, rather than to depict objective reality. Expressionist artists used distorted forms, bold colors, and intense brushwork to convey intense feelings and inner turmoil.

The movement was a response to the social and political upheavals of the time, including World War I, the rise of industrialization, and the growing sense of alienation and anxiety in modern society. Expressionist art often dealt with themes of angst, despair, and existential crisis.

Some of the most famous expressionist artists include Edvard Munch, Wassily Kandinsky, and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. Their works were characterized by their highly subjective, often disturbing, and highly personal content.

Expressionism had a profound impact on the development of modern art, influencing movements such as Abstract Expressionism, Neo-Expressionism, and Pop Art. It remains an important influence on contemporary art, inspiring artists to explore the limits of subjective expression and emotional intensity in their work.