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 artist's emotional experience over representational forms. Artists often used bold colors, dynamic brushstrokes, and large canvases to convey feelings and ideas. 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 art forms, focusing instead on individual expression and the act of painting itself as a vital part of the artwork.