Final answer:
Renaissance individualism led artists to explore a wide array of subjects, influenced by classical antiquity, personal fame, and the cultural shift towards recognizing individual achievement. This resulted in secular portraits, landscapes, and the emergence of Mannerism that deviated from previous artistic norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individualism had a profound impact on the subjects that Renaissance artists chose for their works. Renaissance humanism, which celebrated the achievements of individuals, encouraged artists to pursue subjects beyond the traditional religious themes. Influenced by classical antiquity and personal fame, artists began to depict a wider variety of subjects including secular portraits, landscapes, and genre scenes. This shift is evident in works such as the Arnolfini Portrait, which depicts wealthy merchant class individuals in a secular setting, showcasing their status and wealth. The artistic movement of Mannerism also arose during this period, as artists aimed to distinguish themselves from the harmony and beauty achieved by predecessors like Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo by experimenting with elongated forms, artificial colors, and irrational settings.