What made modern art so different from other periods?

Modern art marked a significant departure from traditional artistic conventions by prioritizing individual expression, experimentation, and abstraction over realistic representation. Artists began to explore new materials, techniques, and perspectives, often reflecting the rapidly changing social, political, and technological landscapes of their time. This period embraced a diverse range of styles, from Impressionism to Surrealism, challenging the established norms and encouraging viewers to interpret art subjectively. Ultimately, modern art sought to convey deeper emotional and philosophical ideas rather than merely depicting the external world.