The term "Automatistes" refers to a group of artists in the 1940s who were part of the Surrealist movement in Montreal, Canada. They aimed to express the unconscious mind through spontaneous and automatic techniques, often creating art without premeditated thought. This approach emphasized free expression and the exploration of dreams and emotions. The Automatistes were influenced by André Breton and sought to break away from traditional artistic conventions. Key figures included Paul-Émile Borduas, whose manifesto, "Refus Global," called for artistic freedom and social change. Their work laid the foundation for modern art in Quebec and inspired future generations of artists.