The AP Art History course is a comprehensive exploration of art's evolution across the globe, from the earliest human expressions to contemporary works. This curriculum is designed to foster an understanding of art within its historical context, analyze visual and thematic elements, and develop a critical perspective on the role of art in society. It mirrors a two-semester college-level introductory art history course and does not require any prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of students interested in art and its history.

Skills Development

The course aims to equip students with the ability to:

1. Critically Evaluate Art: Students learn to assess artworks from various cultures and time periods, considering factors like technique, style, and context.

2. Understand Artistic Connections: Identifying how artworks relate to their cultural, historical, and social contexts, and tracing influences across different periods and regions.

3. Interpret Meaning: Developing theories about what art signifies, supported by reasoned arguments and research.

Exam Overview

The AP Art History Exam, scheduled for May 6, 2024, evaluates students' comprehension of art historical concepts and their ability to apply analytical skills to artworks. The exam structure emphasizes a balanced approach to different art periods and styles.

Detailed Course Content

The course is thoughtfully divided into ten units, each focusing on significant periods and geographical areas in art history, ensuring a holistic view of the subject.

1. Global Prehistory, 30,000–500 BCE

This unit covers the dawn of artistic expression worldwide, emphasizing the diverse methods early humans used to depict their experiences and environments. It accounts for approximately 4% of the exam score.

2. Ancient Mediterranean, 3500 BCE–300 CE

Focusing on the art of ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, this unit delves into the cultural, religious, and political contexts of Mediterranean art. It forms a substantial part of the exam, about 15%.

3. Early Europe and Colonial Americas, 200–1750 CE

Exploring art from the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment, this unit examines how European and American artworks were influenced by Christianity, Islam, and colonial encounters, representing about 21% of the exam.

4. Later Europe and Americas, 1750–1980 CE

This period of rapid change includes the impact of industrialization, modernity, and globalization on art forms, reflecting shifts in society and thought. It also constitutes about 21% of the exam.

5. Indigenous Americas, 1000 BCE–1980 CE

Studying the rich traditions of Native American societies, this unit highlights the continuity and innovation in indigenous art from pre-Columbian civilizations to contemporary expressions, making up 6% of the exam.

6. Africa, 1100–1980 CE

African art, known for its diversity and profound influence, is explored in terms of materials, techniques, and the role of art in society, accounting for 6% of the exam score.

7. West and Central Asia, 500 BCE–1980 CE

Art from this region is examined for its stylistic diversity, influenced by religious beliefs and trade routes, contributing 4% to the exam score.

8. South, East, and Southeast Asia, 300 BCE–1980 CE

This unit covers the unique advancements and artistic traditions of Asian cultures, influenced by religious, courtly, and societal norms, and accounts for 8% of the exam.

9. The Pacific, 700–1980 CE

Focusing on the art of Pacific Island cultures, this unit explores the role of the ocean, trade, and migration in shaping art forms, constituting 4% of the exam.

10. Global Contemporary, 1980 CE to Present

The final unit addresses current trends in global art, including the impact of technology, globalization, and new media, representing 11% of the exam.

Conclusion

The AP Art History course offers a deep dive into the world of art, preparing students for the AP exam and providing a solid foundation for further study. Through analyzing a wide range of artworks, students gain insights into the cultural, historical, and social dynamics that have shaped human expression through the ages. This course challenges students to think critically about art and its meanings, fostering a lifelong appreciation and understanding of art in its many forms.