Final answer:
The best antonym for 'artless' is 'deceitful,' as 'artless' suggests simplicity and honesty, whereas 'deceitful' implies dishonesty and is therefore its opposite.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best antonym for 'artless' in the context of 'an artless young journalist' is D) deceitful. The word 'artless' typically refers to someone who is simple, natural, and without deceit, i.e., not trying to trick or deceive. Therefore, 'deceitful,' which means someone who is not honest and is trying to trick someone, serves as the opposite or antonym of 'artless.'
Option A) ignorant, conveys a lack of knowledge rather than deceit. Option B) simple aligns with the meaning of 'artless' rather than opposing it. Option C) unskilled suggests a lack of ability which is not directly related to the sincerity implied by 'artless.' Option E) inartistic suggests lacking artistic skills, which is not relevant to the idea of honesty or deceit in the context given.