Surrealism

Surrealism is a cultural, artistic, and intellectual movement that began in the early 20th century. It is best known for its visual artworks and writings and the juxtaposition of distant realities to activate the unconscious mind through the imagery.

Origins

Surrealism originated in the late 1910s and early 1920s as a literary movement in Paris. André Breton, a French writer and poet, is generally associated with the inception of this movement. Breton's Manifesto of Surrealism (1924) defined surrealism as "pure psychic automatism".

Characteristics

Surrealism is characterized by fantastic imagery and incongruous juxtapositions. The Surrealist artists often relied on dreams and the subconscious for inspiration, seeking to challenge the primacy of rational thought and the limitations of reality.

Influence on Medicine

Surrealism has had a profound influence on the field of psychiatry and psychoanalysis. The movement's focus on the subconscious mind resonated with contemporary developments in these fields, particularly the work of Sigmund Freud.

Notable Surrealists

Some of the most notable surrealists include Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, and Max Ernst. Their works have had a lasting impact on the art world and continue to be celebrated for their innovative and thought-provoking nature.

See Also

• Dada
• Abstract Expressionism
• Cubism