Emphasis on Inner Experience

During the Expressionism art period, there was a significant emphasis on inner experience, which was closely linked to the subjective perspective of the artists.

Rejection of Objective Reality

Expressionist artists rejected the notion of objective reality and instead focused on their own subjective experiences and emotions. They believed that art should reflect the inner world of the artist rather than attempting to faithfully depict external reality.

Personal Interpretation

Subjective perspective allowed artists to interpret the world through their own unique lens, prioritizing personal expression over objective representation. This approach encouraged individuality and creativity, enabling artists to convey their innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their work.

Exploration of Emotions

Expressionist artists explored a wide range of emotions, from intense despair and anguish to ecstatic joy and spiritual ecstasy. They viewed art as a means of expressing and processing their innermost feelings, allowing them to delve into the depths of human emotion with unparalleled intensity.

Psychological Depth

The emphasis on inner experience led Expressionist artists to delve into the psychological depths of the human psyche. They sought to capture the complexities of the inner self, including subconscious thoughts, fears, desires, and existential concerns, in their artworks.

Symbolic Representation

Expressionist artists often used symbolism and metaphor to convey their inner experiences in their work. Symbolic motifs and allegorical imagery were employed to represent inner states of mind, spiritual insights, and existential dilemmas, allowing for multiple layers of interpretation.

Visual Language of the Subconscious

Expressionist artworks were often characterized by dreamlike imagery, distorted forms, and surreal compositions. These visual elements were seen as manifestations of the subconscious mind, providing insights into the inner workings of the artist’s psyche.

Freedom of Expression

The emphasis on inner experience provided Expressionist artists with a sense of freedom and liberation in their creative expression. They were not bound by traditional conventions or academic rules but were encouraged to express themselves authentically and passionately.

Breaking Taboos

Expressionist artists often explored taboo subjects and controversial themes in their work, including sexuality, death, madness, and existential angst. The emphasis on inner experience allowed them to confront these taboo subjects head-on, challenging societal norms and conventions.

The emphasis on inner experience and subjective perspective during the Expressionism art period had a profound impact on the development of modern art. It paved the way for subsequent movements such as Abstract Expressionism, which continued to explore the depths of human emotion and the mysteries of the inner self. The legacy of Expressionism’s emphasis on inner experience can be seen in the continued exploration of subjective perspectives and personal expression in contemporary art.