What was the Expressionist painters were trying to do?

Expressionist painters aimed to convey emotional experience rather than physical reality, focusing on the subjective interpretation of the world. They used bold colors, distorted forms, and exaggerated lines to express feelings of anxiety, alienation, and turmoil. This movement sought to evoke deep emotional responses from viewers, often reflecting the artist's inner struggles or societal critiques. Ultimately, Expressionism was about capturing the intensity of human experience and exploring the depths of the psyche.