Explore top AP Art History audiobooks for improved understanding of art movements and better exam scores.

Best audiobooks for AP Art History

AP Art History is like embarking on a time-traveling journey, one that spans centuries and cultures, unraveling the fascinating stories behind the world's most iconic works of art. As students navigate this rich tapestry of artistic evolution, having access to the right resources can significantly enhance their learning experience. That's why we've put together a curated list of the best audiobooks designed to enrich your AP Art History studies.

AP Art History class overview

The Advanced Placement (AP) Art History class is a dynamic and comprehensive course designed by the College Board that invites high school students to explore the history of art from various cultures, periods, and geographical locations. The class covers a wide array of works of art, from the classical Greek and Roman periods to contemporary art and culminates in the AP Art History Exam, which includes both multiple-choice questions and free-response prompts about different works of art.

The 9 best audiobooks for AP Art History

Audiobooks are a useful resource for AP Art History students, providing an engaging way to absorb vast amounts of information. From in-depth examinations of specific art periods to comprehensive biographies of influential artists, audiobooks provide an engaging auditory experience, offering fresh insights and a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between art, history, and culture. Here are some of the best audiobooks for AP Art History:

A Degree in a Book: Art History by John Finlay

A Degree in a Book: Art History offers a comprehensive exploration of art history, covering various periods, cultures, and artistic movements. From the ancient world to contemporary art, it provides listeners with a thorough understanding of the evolution of art across different civilizations, periods, and cultures, making it an excellent resource for AP Art History students to prepare for the AP Art History exam.

Broad Strokes: 15 Women Who Made Art and Made History by Bridget Quinn and Lisa Congdon

Broad Strokes: 15 Women Who Made Art and Made History shines a spotlight on the lives and works of 15 pioneering women artists who made significant contributions to the world of art. This inspiring compilation underlines the importance of representation in art history, offering a refreshing perspective that celebrates female creativity.

Stealing the Show: A History of Art and Crime in Six Thefts by John Barelli and Zach Schisgal

Stealing the Show: A History of Art and Crime in Six Thefts is a thrilling audiobook that intertwines art history with true crime, offering an unconventional look at art through the lens of major art thefts throughout history. Barelli and Schisgal bring a unique dimension to the study of art history, investigating the value society places on art.

The Art of Creative Thinking by Rod Judkins

The Art of Creative Thinking delves into the concept of creative thinking, illustrating how the most influential artists and thinkers have pushed boundaries and overcome challenges. This audiobook provides listeners with strategies to harness their creativity and approach problems innovatively, offering valuable insights for any art student.

A World Lit Only by Fire: The Medieval Mind and the Renaissance: Portrait of an Age by William Manchester

A World Lit Only by Fire: The Medieval Mind and the Renaissance: Portrait of an Age offers an in-depth exploration of the medieval mind and the Renaissance, a critical period in Western art history. It paints a vivid picture of this significant era, examining the profound changes in thought, art, and society that characterized this transformative period.

Raphael, Painter in Rome by Stephanie Storey

Raphael, Painter in Rome provides a captivating look at the life and work of Raphael, one of the most celebrated and influential artists of the Italian Renaissance. The audiobook offers valuable insights into Raphael's artistic approach and the cultural context of his time, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in Renaissance art.

The History of Western Art by Peter Whitfield

The History of Western Art is an Amazon bestseller and comprehensive guide covering a chronological exploration of Western art from classical antiquity to modern times. The audiobook provides listeners with an understanding of the key periods, movements, and artists that shaped modern Western art, making it a valuable resource for AP Art History students.

Art History: A Very Short Introduction by Dana Arnold

Art History: A Very Short Introduction provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of global art history. It covers key movements, artists, and works of art, making complex concepts easily understandable. This makes it an excellent introductory guide for AP Art History students starting their journey into art history.

Talk Art by Russell Tovey and Robert Diament

Talk Art is based on a popular podcast and features engaging conversations with leading figures in the contemporary art world. Offering insights into contemporary art practices and the art market, this is a valuable resource for students interested in understanding the current state of art.

How Speechify can help AP students with coursework

To further assist AP Art History students, the Speechify app can be an invaluable tool. Speechify can convert any text into audio, including handwritten notes you’ve taken from AP Art History textbooks, web pages, research articles, study guides, full-length practice tests, and more. This allows students to study while on the go, multitasking, or when they simply want to rest their eyes.

The app also includes speed controls and text highlighting features that allow students to listen to content at their own pace and easily follow along. Whether studying American, European, Western, Japanese, or global contemporary art, Speechify can support students as they navigate the vast world of art history and world history. Try Speechify for free today and see how it can help you boost your studying for any AP test.

FAQ

What are some of the best AP resources to pass the AP Art History test?

Some of the best AP resources to pass the AP Art History test include Speechify, practice tests, or the Barron's AP Art History guide.

How is art different in the south than the west?

Art in the South often reflects regional traditions, historical narratives, and local landscapes, whereas Western art, particularly from the US West Coast, can be more experimental and influenced by modern and postmodern movements.

Is Mona Lisa modern art?

No, the Mona Lisa is not considered modern art; it is an example of High Renaissance art, painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the 16th century.

How is art different in the east than the west?

Eastern art, such as that from Asia, often emphasizes harmony, balance, and spirituality, whereas Western art has a strong focus on realism, individual expression, and linear perspective.

What does the art look like in European tradition?

European traditional art is varied but often features influences from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Impressionist periods, emphasizing realism, perspective, and later the exploration of light and color.

How is art different in Africa than America?

African art is diverse across different cultures but often includes symbolic elements, tribal motifs, and practical integration, like masks and pottery, whereas American art is heavily influenced by various periods, including realism, abstract expressionism, and pop art.

What is the most popular English art?

The most popular English art could be considered the Romantic landscape paintings of the 19th century, particularly the works of artists like J.M.W. Turner and John Constable.