What is a characteristic focus of surrealism in art?

Surrealism is primarily characterized by its focus on exploring the subconscious mind and delving into dreams, fantasies, and irrational thought processes. Artists affiliated with surrealism sought to unlock the power of the unconscious and express the hidden desires and fears that reside within individuals. This movement often involved unexpected juxtapositions, distorted realities, and bizarre imagery to reflect the irrational nature of the subconscious.

By emphasizing the exploration of dreams and the subconscious, surrealism aimed to challenge the conventional understanding of reality, encouraging viewers to consider deeper meanings and the complexities of human thought. This focus sets surrealism apart from other art movements that might emphasize everyday life or realism, demonstrating a unique approach to artistic expression that prioritizes psychological depth and imaginative exploration over direct representation of the observable world.