Final answer:
Hass' photograph reflects the artist's role in helping viewers see the world in different ways, a concept that aligns with the tasks of artists from Realism to Photorealism and beyond. Art invites us to notice the richness of ordinary details, and to think about our surroundings and experiences anew.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of focusing on a small detail of an ordinary day, as seen in Hass' photograph "Peeling Paint, on an Iron Bench," reflects the artistic task of encouraging viewers to refresh or visually see the world in different ways. This contrasts with merely replicating scenes in a realistic manner or focusing on grand, monumental subjects. Artists like those from the Realism and Photorealism movements depicted everyday life and environments, aiming to shine a light on the ordinary, often with an emphasis on the interplay of light and color, the details of everyday locations, and the reflection of surfaces.
Furthermore, art serves to question the conventions of the art world and to help us visualize and empathize with the human condition. This is seen not only in realistic depictions but also in art that forces discussions about the relationship between technical skill and the art-making process. Art's universality also stems from its ability to turn the ordinary into something extraordinary, compelling viewers to think about the world in new and revolutionary ways, which is evidenced in the works of Impressionists, Post-Impressionists, and even contemporary artists like Banksy.