AP Art History2AP Art History

The AP Art History course emphasizes a deep conceptual understanding of art historical concepts. Students will develop the essential skills of visual and contextual analysis. By examining works of art from diverse cultures and the relationships among these works, students develop an understanding of global artistic traditions. Students analyze works of art in their contexts, considering issues of patronage, gender, politics, religion, and ethnicity. The interpretation of the work of art is based upon its intended use, audience, and the role of the artist and the work of art in its particular society. Students will expand their knowledge of history, geography, politics, religion, languages, and literature, as they explore the story of people as told through the art they created.

Course Objectives

The AP Art History course will enable students to:

  • Understand the nature of art, art making, and our responses to it
  • Develop an in-depth understanding of individual works of art from diverse cultures
  • Develop an understanding of the relationships among these works
  • Practice the essential skills of visual, contextual, and comparative analysis