The most influential art movement of the 20th century is arguably Abstract Expressionism. This movement, which began in the 1940s, was the first to gain international recognition and was a major influence on later movements such as Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art. Abstract Expressionism was characterized by large, gestural brushstrokes, intense colors, and a focus on the artist's emotional and psychological state. It was also the first movement to be embraced by the commercial art world, which helped to spread its influence.