What does "go to nature" refer to in relation to Pre-Raphaelite principles?

The phrase "go to nature" in relation to Pre-Raphaelite principles emphasizes the movement's commitment to depicting the natural world with honesty and authenticity. The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood sought to break away from the conventions of the art that preceded them, which they believed overly relied on idealization and artifice. By focusing on natural beauty, they aimed to faithfully capture the details, colors, and textures of the environment around them.

This principle is evident in their artworks, which often include meticulously detailed representations of flora and fauna, as well as realistic portrayals of light and atmosphere. Their desire to capture the essence of nature reflects a broader Romantic ideal, valuing direct observation and the beauty of the unembellished world.

The other options, while touching on relevant artistic techniques or themes, do not encapsulate the broader and more contemplative philosophy behind the Pre-Raphaelite motto of returning to nature. While studying human anatomy and avoiding artificiality are certainly important in artistic practices, they do not reflect the overall emphasis on celebrating the raw beauty of the natural world that "go to nature" signifies. Similarly, while using symbolic colors can be a component of their work, it does not inherently relate to the foundational principle of embracing nature as the primary source