Not a Student?
Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.
About the Course
Guidance for Artificial Intelligence Tools and Other Services
The use of artificial intelligence tools is prohibited at any stage of the creative process. Read more about our policy.
Develop 3-D skills in materials and processes, such as sculpture, architectural rendering and models, metal work, ceramics, glass work, and others. You’ll create artwork that reflects your own ideas and skills and what you’ve learned.
Skills You'll Learn
Investigating the materials, processes, and ideas that artists and designers use
Practicing, experimenting, and revising as you create your own work
Communicating your ideas about works of art and design
Equivalency and Prerequisites
College Course Equivalent
A one-semester, introductory college course in 3-D art and design
Recommended Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course, but any experience creating three-dimensional art and design work, in or out of the classroom, will be helpful.
Portfolio Date
Course Content
Big Idea 1: Investigate Materials, Processes, and Ideas
You’ll learn how artists and designers decide what to make and why and how to make it.
You’ll practice:
- Reflecting on and documenting experiences to inform your art and design work
- Exploring materials, processes, and ideas to use in your work
- Connecting your work to art and design traditions
- Evaluating works of art and design
Big Idea 2: Make Art and Design
You’ll study the processes and techniques that artists and designers use when they create work.
You’ll practice:
- Coming up with questions to guide you in creating works
- Using practice, experimentation, and revision
- Choosing and combining materials, processes, and ideas
- Using the elements and principles of art and design
Big Idea 3: Present Art and Design
You’ll explore why and how artists and designers present their work to viewers.
You’ll practice:
- Explaining how you used materials, processes, and ideas in your work
- Describing how the work shows your skills
- Identifying the questions that guided you in creating your work
- Pointing out how your work shows experimentation, practice, and revision
Credit and Placement
Search AP Credit Policies
Find colleges that grant credit and/or placement for AP Exam scores in this and other AP courses.
Course Resources
See Where AP Can Take You
AP 3-D Art and Design can lead to a wide range of careers and college majors