Which best describes the overall type of art that emerged in the postwar period? surreal
abstract
realistic
cubist

Abstract

Explanation:
Abstract expressionism originates in the so-called postwar period (after World War II), in a troubled time, of affirmation of values.
Abstract expressionism and “truly American” art emerges to offer a new artistic-cultural approach, especially in the aspects against the formal system of painting.
Abstract expressionism has reached worldwide influence, and at that time New York becomes one of the most important art centers in the world, which until then was France (Paris).
The term "Abstract Expressionism" had already been used in the 1920s to identify paintings by the Russian artist Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944).
It was later used by the American writer, philosopher and critic Harold Rosemberg (1906-1978). The term appeared in his article "American Artists of Action Painting," published in 1952 in the newspaper "Art News."
This is how many artists of this innovative stream broke with traditional easel art. They focused on artistic creation in human emotions and expressions, like Jackson Pollock, one of the greatest representatives of American abstract expressionism.