Topics Covered
AP Art History
A. Global Prehistory (30,000–500 BCE)
1 Introduction to art history methods and visual analysis
2 Key prehistoric works (cave paintings, sculptures, Stonehenge)
3 Function and meaning of early human artworks
4 Materials and techniques used by early artists
B. Ancient Mediterranean (3500 BCE–300 CE)
1 Art of ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt (Ziggurats, pyramids, tomb paintings)
2 Greek art: Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic styles
3 Roman art and architecture: realism, engineering, public spaces
4 Political power and religion expressed through art
C. Early Europe and Colonial Americas (200–1750 CE)
1 Early Christian and Byzantine art
2 Romanesque and Gothic art and architecture
3 Renaissance art in Italy and Northern Europe
4 Baroque art: drama, emotion, and grandeur
5 Colonial art in the Americas
D. Later Europe and Americas (1750–1980 CE)
1 Rococo and Neoclassicism
2 Romanticism, Realism, and Impressionism
3 Modern art movements: Cubism, Surrealism, Expressionism
4 American art: Hudson River School, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art
5 Political and social messages in modern art
E. Indigenous Americas (1000 BCE–1980 CE)
1 Art of Native North American cultures (earthworks, ceramics, totems)
2 Art of Mesoamerica: Maya, Aztec, Inca
3 Religious and ceremonial functions of indigenous art
4 Influence of colonization on indigenous art forms
F. Africa (1100–Present)
1 Traditional African sculpture, masks, and textiles
2 Royal art and symbolism in African kingdoms
3 Colonial impact on African art
4 Contemporary African artists and global influence
G. West and Central Asia (500 BCE–1980 CE)
1 Islamic art: calligraphy, architecture, manuscripts
2 Palaces and mosques: symbolism and function
3 Trade routes' influence on artistic development
4 Persian and Mughal miniatures
H. South, East, and Southeast Asia (300 BCE–1980 CE)
1 Hindu and Buddhist art and architecture (stupas, temples)
2 Chinese dynasties and artistic traditions
3 Japanese painting, sculpture, and architecture (Zen Buddhism, Edo period)
4 Southeast Asian art and influence of trade and religion
I. The Pacific (700–1980 CE)
1 Art of Oceania: tattooing, sculpture, textiles, navigation charts
2 Cultural practices reflected through material and design
3 Impact of European contact on Pacific art traditions
J. Global Contemporary (1980–Present)
1 Contemporary artists addressing global issues
2 New media and techniques (installation art, digital art)
3 Identity, politics, and activism in contemporary art
4 Blending of traditional and modern elements
K. AP Exam Practice Skills
1 Visual analysis: form, function, content, and context
2 Comparing artworks across cultures and time periods
3 Developing strong art historical arguments
4 Free-Response Question (FRQ) strategies
5 Analyzing unfamiliar works effectively
6 Timing strategies for multiple-choice and essay sections
