For many creatives, the idea of expressionism is a source of excitement and trepidation both – a style that allows its practitioners to explore their deepest, darkest and most intense emotions while creating captivating, abstract works of art. It is a style that many fear but few understand – and in this article, we hope to shed some light on the ins and outs of the expressionist movement and how expressing yourself through art can be a powerful and cathartic experience.

The Definition of Expressionism

In its most basic form, expressionism refers to art that comes from the expression of an emotion. It is, at its core, an artist’s attempt to share with the viewer his or her true feelings, however raw they might be. Expressionism is an intensely personal form of creation, as it’s almost entirely reliant on the emotive core of the artist. It allows artists to take simple objects or scenes, and distort them in such a way that the artist can project their feelings onto the piece.

“Expressionism seeks to express intense emotions, whether of joy, sorrow, anger, or manifestly any other which is powerful enough to find its reflection in artistic form,” wrote art historian Emile Benezit in his book The Neglected Tradition.

The recent surge of abstract expressionism in the art world has allowed for a much broader definition of expressionism. Today, expressionism in art isn’t solely about expressing intense emotions – it’s about using the canvas or the other medium to tell a story.

According to contemporary artist Ariel Christina, “Expressionism is not just about the raw emotions – it’s about the story being told. It’s a way of sharing experiences, of exposing part of yourself, and of connecting with the viewers on a more personal, emotional level.”

Notable Expressionist Artists

There is a long and illustrious history of expressionist art that spans centuries, and there are many notable names in the movement – from abstract artists to figurative artists. Some of the most celebrated expressionist artists include Marc Chagall, who used his art to share his unique view of the world; Vincent van Gogh, whose works expressed the raw emotions of his mental and emotional breakdowns; and Edvard Munch, who used his art to tell his own personal story.

German artist Wassily Kandinsky is often cited as one of the premier expressionist artists of all time, and his work has become synonymous with the movement. In his book Concerning the Spiritual in Art, Kandinsky said, “The artist must train not only his eye but also his soul, for the spiritual vision which pervades his work.” His work attempted to capture the very essence of the world, using bold colors and stark, often abstract shapes.

The Benefits of Expressionism

Expressionism has many benefits for its practitioners. Not only can it be an incredibly cathartic and healing experience, but it can also provide an outlet for the artist to share their story to the world. Expressionism allows the artist to speak their truth and tell the story they otherwise wouldn’t be able to tell.

“The act of putting intense emotions onto canvas can be both liberating and therapeutic,” says professional artist Nelson Teal. “It can be a way for the artist to process their feelings and thoughts in a meaningful way.”

Expressionism also allows artists to take risks and step outside of their comfort zone. It’s a style that encourages experimentation and exploration, something that can be difficult for traditional or traditionalist artists to do. By straying from their comfort zones, expressionist artists have the opportunity to surprise themselves, as well as their viewers.
Finally, expressionism allows artists to express themselves in a way that is unique and personal to them. In a world that often values the same types of art, expressionism allows the artist to create something that is truly unique and personal to them.

Conclusion

Expressionism is an exciting and often daunting form of art. It allows artists to explore their innermost emotions and feelings and to express them through a medium that is truly unique and personal to them. By allowing artists to step out of their comfort zones and to experiment with bold and daring ideas, the expressionistic movement has had a profound effect on the art world.
Whether you’re an artist yourself or art connoisseur looking to learn more about the movement, exploring expressionism can open up a whole new world of ideas and possibilities. You never know what you’ll find!

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Tags: Art Movement, Modern Art

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