Abstract expressionism, a movement that emerged in the post-World War II era as a response to traditional forms of artistic expression, can be described using a variety of synonyms. Some might refer to it as "action painting," which emphasizes the physicality and gestural quality of the works created. Others might use the term "color field painting," which highlights the importance of color and the exploration of its effects on the viewer. Still others might refer to it as "gestural abstraction," emphasizing the focus on the individual artist's bodily movements and the resulting marks on the canvas. Ultimately, these different descriptors all point to the same essential qualities of abstract expressionism: a rejection of figurative representation, a commitment to experimentation and innovation, and a celebration of the expressive potential of art.