What is a defining feature of Expressionism in art?

The defining feature of Expressionism in art is the use of bold colors and exaggerated forms. This movement emerged in the early 20th century as artists sought to convey emotional experiences and subjective interpretations rather than objective reality. Expressionist artists often employed vibrant colors to evoke feelings and used distorted forms to emphasize emotional truths, allowing them to express the intensity of human experience and struggle.

This emphasis on emotional expression through dramatic colors and forms is what sets Expressionism apart from other movements, such as Impressionism, which tends to focus on capturing light and natural scenes with softer colors and a more realistic approach. In contrast, Expressionism prioritizes the artist's inner feelings and emotional response to the world, which is vividly reflected in their use of color and form.