What are the main characteristics of Surrealist art?

Key characteristics of Surrealist art include dreamlike imagery drawn from the unconscious mind, unexpected juxtapositions of unrelated objects, transformation and metamorphosis of forms, biomorphic shapes suggesting organic life, and often hyperrealistic rendering of impossible scenes. Surrealist works frequently feature melting or distorted objects, hybrid creatures combining human, animal, and mechanical elements, vast empty landscapes, and symbolic imagery drawn from Freudian psychology. The uncanny quality of familiar things made strange is central to the Surrealist aesthetic. Techniques include automatism, collage, frottage, and grattage. Explore these concepts further in our comprehensive glossary.