AP Art History: Exam Review

This intensive AP Art History review course prepares students for the AP exam by covering major artistic periods, styles, and movements from global prehistory to contemporary art. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of art historical context, critical analysis skills, and the ability to identify and contextualize key artworks. By the end of this course, students will be equipped to confidently tackle multiple-choice questions and construct well-supported essays, positioning them for success on the AP exam.

Global Prehistory

• Explore art from the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods — including cave paintings, sculptures, and architectural structures
• Analyze the function and meaning of prehistoric art within its cultural context
• Examine examples like the Great Hall of Bulls at Lascaux and Stonehenge

Ancient Mediterranean Art

• Trace the development of art in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome — focusing on architecture, sculpture, and painting
• Investigate the influence of religion, politics, and philosophy on artistic production
• Study iconic works such as the Palette of King Narmer, the Parthenon, and the Colosseum

18th-Century Art

• Differentiate between the Rococo and Neoclassical styles — contrasting their aesthetic values and cultural contexts
• Examine the rise of the French bourgeoisie and its impact on art patronage and subject matter
• Analyze the influence of the Enlightenment and the rediscovery of classical ruins on Neoclassical art

19th-Century Art

• Trace the evolution of art from Romanticism to Realism to Impressionism
• Analyze the impact of industrialization, urbanization, and social change on artistic themes
• Explore key artists such as Goya, Courbet, Monet, and Van Gogh

Early 20th-Century Art

• Examine the major avant-garde movements of the early 20th century — including Fauvism, Expressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism
• Analyze the artists' exploration of new forms of representation and their responses to modernity
• Study works by artists like Matisse, Picasso, Kandinsky, and Dali

Late 20th-Century and Contemporary Art

• Explore the diverse range of artistic styles and movements that emerged after World War II — including Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art
• Analyze how artists engaged with social, political, and cultural issues of the late 20th and early 21st centuries
• Consider the impact of new media, technology, and globalization on contemporary art

Themes and Pluralism in Art

• Understand the concept of pluralism in art and how multiple styles coexist
• Recognize the synthesis of ideas and artistic impulses in individual artists' works
• Analyze the adaptation of art across time, including the influence of new media

AP Exam Strategies

• Practice answering multiple-choice questions — applying knowledge of art history and critical analysis skills
• Develop effective strategies for writing Free-Response Questions (FRQs) — mastering essay structure, argumentation, and the use of evidence
• Learn to identify key pieces of art.