What term refers to paintings that emphasize inner emotions and sensations rather than actual appearances?

The term that refers to paintings emphasizing inner emotions and sensations rather than actual appearances is Expressionism. This movement emerged in the early 20th century as artists sought to convey their subjective experiences, feelings, and angst through the use of bold colors, distorted forms, and exaggerated lines. Unlike movements that focus on capturing the external world as it appears, Expressionism prioritizes emotional experience and psychological depth, allowing artists to express their innermost thoughts and feelings.

In contrast, Impressionism is characterized by a focus on light and its effects on color, often capturing a moment in time and the artist's immediate perception of a scene. Realism aims to depict subjects as they appear in everyday life, without idealization or emotional influence. Surrealism explores dream-like, fantastical imagery and the unconscious mind but does not primarily focus on emotional expression in the same way Expressionism does. Each of these movements has distinct objectives and characteristics, making Expressionism uniquely centered on conveying emotional truth.