What style did Abstract Expressionism primarily draw influence from?

Abstract Expressionism primarily drew influence from Surrealism. This connection can be traced through the emphasis on expressing the unconscious and the spontaneous approach to creativity characteristic of both movements. Surrealism, with its focus on dream-like imagery and the exploration of the irrational, encouraged artists to tap into their emotions and subconscious thoughts. This influence is evident in the techniques employed by Abstract Expressionists, such as automatism and gestural brushwork, which aimed to convey a sense of freedom and individualism in their art.

While other movements, such as Baroque, Realism, and Impressionism, contributed to the overall development of modern art, they did not directly shape the core tenets of Abstract Expressionism in the same way that Surrealism did. In contrast to the structured compositions found in Baroque or Realism, or the focus on light and atmosphere in Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism sought to break away from traditional representation and instead focused on the act of painting itself as a form of expression.