Art movements are distinct periods or styles in art history characterized by shared philosophies, techniques, and themes among artists. These movements often arise in response to cultural, social, or political changes and can influence various forms of artistic expression, including painting, sculpture, and architecture. Examples include Impressionism, which focused on capturing light and everyday scenes, and Cubism, which broke objects into geometric shapes. Each art movement typically has key figures who lead or represent the style, such as Vincent van Gogh in Post-Impressionism or Pablo Picasso in Cubism. Understanding these movements helps to appreciate the evolution of art and the diverse ways artists express their ideas and emotions throughout history.