Abstract Expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s. It is characterized by spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, emphasizing the act of painting itself. Artists often used bold colors, dynamic brushstrokes, and large canvases to express emotions and ideas rather than representational forms. Key figures in this movement include Jackson Pollock, known for his drip painting technique, and Mark Rothko, famous for his color field paintings. Abstract Expressionism marked a shift away from traditional artistic techniques, focusing instead on individual expression and the exploration of the subconscious mind.