Abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock's drip paintings were initially dismissed by critics as random splatters a child could make. Later analysis revealed that his work exhibits fractal patterns similar to those found in nature—complex mathematical structures that suggest a high degree of skill and intention. Art forgers have found it extremely difficult to replicate these patterns, despite the apparently simple technique.

4
reading

It can be inferred from the text that

A

all children can create art equal to Jackson Pollock's

B

apparent simplicity in art may mask underlying complexity that requires expertise to achieve

C

fractal patterns only appear in natural phenomena

D

art critics always correctly evaluate new works

Correct Answer: B

Choice B is the best answer. What looked random actually required skill to produce.

  1. Context clues: Critics called it random; analysis revealed complex patterns; forgers can't replicate it.
  2. Meaning: The difficulty of replication proves hidden expertise despite surface simplicity.
  3. Verify: If it were truly simple, forgers could easily copy it.

💡 Strategy: When something appears simple but proves hard to replicate, infer hidden complexity.

Choice A is incorrect because forgers (adults with intent) "found it extremely difficult." Choice C is incorrect because Pollock's paintings exhibit fractals, not just nature. Choice D is incorrect because the initial critical dismissal was wrong.