Surrealism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1920s. It sought to release the creative potential of the unconscious mind, tapping into the irrational, dreamlike, and fantastical elements of the human psyche.
Beliefs
Unconscious Exploration
Surrealism was deeply influenced by the psychoanalytic theories of Sigmund Freud, particularly the idea of the unconscious mind. Artists aimed to explore and express the irrational and dreamlike aspects of human thought, often revealing hidden desires and fears.
Automatism
Surrealist artists embraced automatism, a technique where the artist allows the subconscious mind to guide the creative process without conscious control. This resulted in spontaneous, unplanned, and seemingly irrational creations.
Dream Imagery
Surrealism frequently incorporated dreamlike and fantastical imagery. Artists depicted bizarre, otherworldly scenes that defied the laws of reality, creating a sense of mystery and fascination.
Symbolism and Metaphor
Surrealist works often relied on symbolic elements and metaphorical imagery. Objects and scenes held deeper meanings, inviting viewers to interpret the symbolism and engage with the subconscious narrative.
Renewed Interest in the Renaissance and Baroque
Surrealists were drawn to earlier art movements, particularly the detailed and imaginative works of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Artists found inspiration in the dreamlike qualities of these historical art forms.
Literature
Surrealism extended into literature with writers like André Breton, who wrote the Surrealist Manifesto. Surrealist literature often explored the stream of consciousness, automatic writing, and fantastical narratives.
