Artistic movements are periods in art history characterized by a shared style, philosophy, or approach among artists. These movements often arise in response to cultural, social, or political changes and can influence various forms of art, including painting, sculpture, and literature. Examples include Impressionism, which focused on capturing light and everyday scenes, and Surrealism, which explored the unconscious mind and dream imagery. Each artistic movement typically has key figures who contribute significantly to its development. For instance, Vincent van Gogh is associated with Post-Impressionism, while Pablo Picasso is a central figure in Cubism. These movements help to understand the evolution of artistic expression over time.