Which art movement is characterized by a rejection of previous styles in favor of bold colors and shapes?

Abstract Expressionism is recognized for its revolutionary approach to art that emphasizes spontaneous creation and the use of bold colors and dynamic shapes. Emerging in the mid-20th century, this movement placed a significant focus on the emotional intensity of the artist's experience, communicated through abstract forms rather than representational imagery. Artists associated with Abstract Expressionism, such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, often utilized techniques like action painting and color field painting to express their innermost feelings, moving away from traditional artistic conventions.

This shift in focus from defined forms and clear subject matter to free expression through abstraction fundamentally distinguishes Abstract Expressionism from the other movements listed. For instance, Gothic art is noted for its intricate details and architectural grandeur, while Mannerism is characterized by its elongated figures and exaggerated perspectives. Surrealism, on the other hand, merges dreamlike elements with reality but does not emphasize the bold use of color and form as central themes in the same way. Thus, the emphasis on bold colors and shapes, as well as the rejection of previous artistic styles, firmly aligns with the characteristics of Abstract Expressionism.