AP Art History

Course: 453

Course Description:

*Recommended: PSAT Reading score of 31 or better

This is a college-level class that examines the role of art within history and the effect of that history upon art. The study of Art History involves critical thinking and will develop an understanding and knowledge of diverse historical and cultural contexts of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other media. It also will create opportunities for students to strengthen an area neglected in most curricula. In this course, students will examine major forms of artistic expression from the past and present from a variety of cultures. While visual analysis is a fundamental tool of the art historian, art history emphasizes understanding how and why works of art function in context, considering such issues as patronage, gender, and the functions and effects of art. Summer work is required.

*This course does not count toward the fulfillment of a student’s credit requirement in history. 

*This class can fulfill 1.0 credit in Fine Arts instead of 1.0 History elective credit. 

Textbook/Class Resources:

9781337696678, Kleiner, Gardner's Art Through the Ages: A Global History, 16th ed., Cengage, 2020  Students may purchase or rent this text either in print form or digital format.

9781449482138, Strickland, The Annotated Mona Lisa, 3rd ed., McMeel Pub., 2018

A packet of art prints and notes will be provided by the instructor, and student accounts will be billed accordingly.