SURREALISM Meaning and
Definition
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Surrealism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by its exploration and display of the subconscious mind and dreamlike imagery. It aims to liberate the imagination and challenge conventional notions of reality by juxtaposing unrelated objects or ideas in unusual and unexpected ways.
The term "surrealism" was coined by the French writer André Breton in his 1924 Manifesto of Surrealism. Influenced by the psychoanalytical theories of Sigmund Freud, surrealists sought to tap into the unconscious mind to uncover hidden meanings and desires. They believed that by bypassing reason and logic, artists could access deeper levels of truth and achieve pure artistic expression.
Surrealistic works often feature irrational and nonsensical elements, dreamlike landscapes, and strange or distorted figures. Artists employ techniques such as automatic writing or drawing, in which they allow their subconscious mind to guide their creative process without interference from the conscious mind. By blurring the boundaries between reality and fantasy, surrealism aims to challenge the viewer's perception and provoke emotional responses.
Surrealism extends beyond visual arts and literature; it has also had a significant impact on film, theater, and philosophy. It continues to inspire artists around the world, encouraging them to defy traditional norms and explore the depths of the human psyche. Surrealism represents a radical departure from conventional artistic movements, emphasizing the power of the imagination and the beautiful chaos that lies within the human mind.
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Etymology of SURREALISM
The word "surrealism" was coined by the French poet and critic Guillaume Apollinaire in 1917. It is derived from the French word "surréalisme", which combines two words: "sur", meaning "beyond" or "above", and "réalisme", meaning "realism".
Apollinaire originally used the term to describe a new form of art that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional realism and seeks to explore the irrational and unconscious aspects of the human mind. The Surrealist movement later emerged in the 1920s, led by figures such as André Breton, Salvador Dalí, and René Magritte, and it aimed to liberate the creative potential of the unconscious mind. The term "surrealism" became associated with this artistic and literary movement, and it has since become widely used in various contexts to describe anything that has dream-like or fantastic qualities.
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