A painting shows a city's bridge with citizens filling the street.

Pont Neuf, Paris
by Auguste Renoir

Courtesy National Gallery of Art,
Washington

Question
What did the artist most likely do to create this piece of art?
(1 point)
Responses

had no prior knowledge of perspective
had no prior knowledge of perspective

investigated the scenery before painting it
investigated the scenery before painting it

chose the colors that were pleasing rather than accurate
chose the colors that were pleasing rather than accurate

omitted the use of proportion to keep the image interesting
omitted the use of proportion to keep the image interesting

investigated the scenery before painting it

Based on the given information, the artist most likely investigated the scenery before painting it.

To answer this question, we can analyze the options provided and use our knowledge about the process of creating a painting.

1. Had no prior knowledge of perspective: This option suggests that the artist did not have any understanding or knowledge about perspective, which is highly unlikely. Perspective is a fundamental concept in art that helps create the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality in a two-dimensional artwork. Artists, including Auguste Renoir, typically have a solid understanding of perspective.

2. Investigated the scenery before painting it: This option suggests that the artist explored the location and studied the scenery before creating the artwork. This is a plausible step in the artistic process, as artists often make sketches or take reference photographs to capture the details and essence of the scenery they plan to paint. It helps them understand the composition, lighting, and other elements they want to include in their artwork.

3. Chose the colors that were pleasing rather than accurate: Artists have creative freedom when it comes to selecting colors for their artwork. While they may take inspiration from the real scenery, they are not bound to accurately reproduce the colors they see. They can choose to use colors that are more aesthetically pleasing or convey a certain mood or atmosphere. However, it is important to note that artists, including Renoir, still have an understanding of color theory and how to use it effectively.

4. Omitted the use of proportion to keep the image interesting: Proportion is another fundamental concept in art that relates to the size, scale, and relationships between different elements in an artwork. It is highly unlikely that an artist would purposefully omit the use of proportion to keep the image interesting. Proportion helps create a sense of balance and harmony in a composition, and artists typically utilize it to create visually pleasing and well-structured artworks.

Based on the analysis, the most plausible answer is: The artist investigated the scenery before painting it.