Final answer:
The correct answer is a. Culinary, as this term refers to the cooking-related aspects of preparing, cooking, and presenting food, which are the skills of a chef.
Step-by-step explanation:
The famous chef had been a life-long student of the culinary arts. The correct answer to the fill-in-the-blank question is option a. Culinary. The term 'culinary' specifically relates to cooking and is connected to the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food. Individuals who work in this field, particularly in restaurants, are often referred to as 'chefs' or 'cooks.' However, 'culinary artist' and 'culinarian' are also terms that can broadly describe someone skilled in these arts. The practice of proper table manners is also sometimes considered an aspect of the culinary arts.