Final answer:
Independence in the context of Mr. Wu's art class means having freedom from outside control, which allows students to be innovative in creating art projects and encourages them to apply artistic concepts in unique ways.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given sentences, independence refers to the ability of students in Mr. Wu's art class to have freedom from outside control when creating their art projects. This freedom allows the students to be individualists, like the rebel painters who defied traditional methods, and thus encourages innovation and personal expression.
Students are expected to use the autonomy granted to them to demonstrate their understanding of artistic concepts by applying them in new and unique ways. They have the freedom to make their own choices concerning their art projects, and this sort of learning environment aligns with self-determination theory, which advocates for autonomy, competence, and relatedness in educational practice.