Wayne Thiebaud, renowned for his vibrant depictions of everyday objects and landscapes, also made significant contributions to portraiture and figurative works throughout his career. His exploration of human figures and portraits is a testament to his versatility and depth as an artist, going beyond his more recognized subjects like cakes, pies, and Californian landscapes.

Thiebaud's approach to figurative work is marked by the same richness and tactile quality that characterizes his still lifes. He applied thick paint and exaggerated colors to create distinct, well-defined shadows, a technique that lends a sense of solidity and presence to his figures. This method, while maintaining a connection to his interest in objects of mass culture, showcased Thiebaud's ability to capture the essence of his subjects through form and color, standing apart from the mechanical styles often associated with Pop Art​ (Wikipedia)​.

In 1963, Thiebaud began to shift his focus more towards figure painting, adopting a style that was both wooden and rigid, where each detail was sharply emphasized. This period marked a departure from his earlier works, demonstrating his willingness to explore new artistic challenges and subject matters. Throughout his career, Thiebaud continued to engage with figure painting, alongside his exploration of landscapes, cityscapes, and the iconic dessert paintings for which he is best known​ (Wikipedia)​.

His figurative works, along with his landscapes and still lifes, were showcased in exhibitions that spanned over his 70-year career. One such exhibition, "Wayne Thiebaud: Cities, Sweets & Portraits," held by Sotheby’s in Los Angeles, highlighted the breadth of Thiebaud’s work, featuring a significant collection of paintings and works on paper that depicted his most beloved subjects. The exhibition underscored Thiebaud's ongoing passion for painting and his continuous exploration of new themes and techniques across different phases of his work​ (Sothebys.com)​.

Thiebaud's figurative paintings and portraits are essential in understanding his overall contribution to art. They reveal his ability to distill complex human forms and emotions into simple, yet profound, visual elements, emphasizing his unique place in the realm of 20th-century American art.