Expressionists/ Expressionism

Expressionism is the term used to describe works of art and literature in which the representation distorts reality and conveys an inner vision or meaning. "The expressionist transforms nature rather than imitates it." Unlike Impressionism (style of painting that portrays a general impression and accurate meaning), expressionism art portrays spontaneous emotions, self-expression, inner meaning, and an abstract visual that allows a viewer to interpret whatever he or she wants in the art.

Expressionism originated in mostly Germany, in 1910. The international movement has been thought of as evolving from certain medieval artforms and mostly occured during times of social change or spiritual crisis. Expressionists that brought about this movement are said to be Cezanne, Gauguin, Van Gogh and German groups: Die Brucke and Der blaue Reiter. Expressionism can also be seen in Germanic and Nordic art from the European Middle Ages. Expressionism is common amongst modern artists. The main goal of these expressionists is to surround themselves with art that achieves the highest amount of unrealistic portrayal possible. They accomplish this goal by providing exaggeration, distortion, violence, fantasy, etc. in their art.