The Uncanny describes the psychological phenomenon where people feel discomfort from things that appear both familiar and strange or unfamiliar yet somehow known. Sigmund Freud introduced the concept of the Uncanny in 1919 to describe the disturbing experience of recognizing something familiar where it should not be present. Surrealism and German Expressionism embraced this concept which allowed artists like Salvador Dali and Max Ernst to create unsettling and mysterious artworks through the use of uncanny elements. The Uncanny became significant during the early 1900s when society faced both cultural shifts and deep philosophical inquiries about existence. The influence of the Uncanny extends to literature, film and visual arts as artists strive to shatter conventional viewpoints and explore the limits of reality. The Uncanny uses contrasting elements to push viewers to face their hidden fears and desires while obscuring the distinction between what's known and unknown. Contemporary artists use the Uncanny to powerfully investigate identity, memory and subconscious themes. Through the use of uncanny imagery artists Cindy Sherman and Louise Bourgeois disrupt conventional self-portrayals while encouraging viewers to engage in self-reflection. Through the use of the Uncanny artistic expression generates a contemplative space for viewers to examine their inner worlds and face human experience complexities.