What effect does pointillism create for the viewer's eye?

Pointillism creates the effect of optical color mixing, which occurs when small dots of pure color are applied side by side on the canvas. When viewed from a distance, the viewer's eye blends these individual dots together to form a range of colors, creating a luminous and dynamic visual experience. This technique relies on the viewer's perception and the way colors interact when placed in close proximity, resulting in a vibrant and engaging effect that is distinct from traditional mixing methods.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of pointillism. Blurred images typically arise from techniques that involve smudging or softening edges rather than the deliberate placement of distinct dots. Textured surfaces might be a characteristic of some paintings, but they are not a defining feature of pointillism, which focuses more on color than texture. Monochromatic paintings, characterized by using varying shades of a single color, do not apply to pointillism, which celebrates color diversity and interaction. Thus, the unique optical phenomenon created by pointillism is primarily the blending of colors perceived by the viewer as a result of this method.