Expressionism prioritises the emotional truth of a subject over literal representation. Distortion, bold colour, rough handling, and exaggerated forms are used to convey psychological states rather than external appearances. German Expressionism in the early 20th century is the movement's historical centre, but expressive tendencies appear across painting, printmaking, and sculpture in many periods and cultures.
See it in practice
Browse expressionism artworks on Herehood
Original works by local artists, available for display.