Known for his iconic paintings of cakes and pies, Wayne Thiebaud's legacy as painter of abstract Americana continues, well into his 100th year. He's still painting, teaching and inspiring. The Bay Area Figurative Artists of the 20th century forged a relationship of abstraction and figuration that would distinguish them from the New York School and it's Abstract Expressionist movement. With a focus on several key players, including Wayne Thiebaud, David Park, Nathan Oliveira and Richard Diebenkorn, let's explore their impact and work through historical context, stylistic factors, and that California light, all establishing credence to their influence and special place in the modern era.