What is the role of "artistic movements" in visual arts?

Artistic movements play a significant role in shaping the visual arts by influencing styles, techniques, and ideologies. These movements often emerge in response to or in dialogue with the cultural, social, and political contexts of their time. For instance, movements such as Impressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism each brought about new ways of seeing and representing reality, leading artists to explore innovative techniques and materials that reflected contemporary thoughts and feelings.

The ideas and styles promoted by these movements not only create a cohesive identity for groups of artists but also challenge traditional norms and push the boundaries of what art can be. As a result, an artist's work can be seen as both a personal expression and a reflection of the larger trends and movements in the art world, which can inspire individuals to explore similar themes or techniques. Therefore, the influence of artistic movements is fundamental in understanding the evolution of art history and the development of distinctive artistic expressions.