What is Expressionism?
Q: What is Expressionism?
A: Expressionism is an art and cultural movement of the 20th century, in which artists try to express a feeling with what they create. Colours and shapes are used not as they appear in reality, but as the artist feels them.
Q: When did Expressionism emerge?
A: Expressionism emerged as an 'avant-garde movement' in poetry and painting before the First World War. It was especially popular during the Weimar years, peaking in popularity in 1920s Berlin.
Q: What does Expressionist art look to achieve?
A: Expressionist art looks to get an emotional effect, and transmits personal moods and ideas rather than physical reality. The aim is to express the meaning of "being alive" and emotional experience.
Q: What forms does expressionism take?
A: Expressionism can be exhibited through many different art forms including painting, literature, theatre, dance, film, architecture and music.
Q: Who are some notable expressionists?
A: Notable expressionists include Edvard Munch (The Scream), August Macke, Ernst-Ludwig Kirchner, Emil Nolde, Marc Chagall , Wassily Kandinsky , Egon Schiele , Franz Marc , Rolf Nesch , Konrad Krzyżanowski . El Greco's "View of Toledo" also bears a striking resemblance to 20th century expressionism although it is historically part of the Mannerism movement.
Q: How did WWI affect expressionist artists?
A:WWI had a profound impact on expressionist artists due to the number of young men who died during this time period; it left deep impressions on their minds which were reflected in their work.
