Which art movement is known for breaking away from traditional representation and exploring abstraction?

Cubism is recognized for its significant departure from traditional representation in art, focusing on abstraction and the fragmentation of forms. Developed by artists such as Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque in the early 20th century, Cubism emphasized the two-dimensionality of the canvas and challenged the conventional perspectives of painting by representing subjects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. This innovative approach allowed artists to break subjects down into geometric shapes and overlapping planes, leading to a new way of seeing and representing the world. The movement fundamentally changed perceptions of space, form, and perspective in art, making it a cornerstone of modern artistic practice.

In contrast, Impressionism is characterized by its focus on capturing the effects of light and color rather than abstraction, while Realism sought to depict everyday life and ordinary subjects without stylization. Surrealism, although it also explores unconventional themes and dream-like imagery, does not primarily focus on abstraction as its core principle like Cubism does.