Homewood High School has introduced a new Advanced Placement (AP) Art History class, aimed at decreasing the gap for students interested in the arts without requiring traditional artistic skills.
Taught by AP Language and Composition teacher Leslie Anastasia, the course offers students a comprehensive understanding of art’s evolution through the ages.
Anastasia recognized a significant gap in the school’s curriculum: many students didn’t have access to fine arts classes that didn’t require artistic talent.
“This class offers a way for students to earn fine arts credits without needing to be artistic,” she explained.
The curriculum covers an impressive 250 significant artworks, which spans from prehistoric times to the present day. Students reach into the connections between art and various belief systems, including Christianity, Islam and Buddhism. By analyzing the historical contexts that influenced each piece, students gain a richer understanding of the cultural narratives embedded in art.
Senior Wendy Contreras enrolled in the course and stated her motivation for joining.
“I wanted to learn more about past art and felt it would help me in my current art class,” she said.
She noted that the lessons on artworks have directly influenced her own artistic practice.
When asked about the skills she has developed through the course, Wendy highlighted the importance of effective study techniques and ability of memorizing, which are important given the extensive material covered.
“It’s a lot to take in,” Contreras remarked.
Contreras also offered advice for students considering the class next year.
“If you’re not super enthusiastic about learning art and memorization, it might be a harder class for you,” she cautioned. “Many thought it would be easy, but the depth of the content can be challenging.”
Anastasia, who has a strong background in English, wants to connect literary and artistic analysis. She encourages students to think critically about the messages in art.
“I want students to understand the stories behind the artworks,” she said.
In the future, Anastasia hopes to grow the program to include more students.
“I’d love to add another section next year,” she stated, aware of the challenges of fitting electives into students’ busy schedules.
As AP Art History begins at Homewood High School, Anastasia is dedicated to offering students a meaningful exploration of art and culture to help them prepare for future studies. With enthusiastic students like Contreras, the program’s future looks bright.
For more information about the AP Art History class, interested students and parents can consult the 2026-2027 curriculum guide on the Homewood High School homepage.
