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Wayne
Thiebaud

Wayne Thiebaud, celebrated for his vibrant and whimsical depictions, masterfully blended Pop Art with realism, resulting in an elevated American art scene. If you’re looking for original Wayne Thiebaud prints and editions for sale or would like to sell, request a complimentary valuation and browse our network’s most in-demand works.

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Biography

Born in 1920 in Mesa, Arizona, and raised in California, Wayne Thiebaud’s artistic journey began against the backdrop of the American West. His early life was marked by diverse experiences, from working as a cartoonist and designer to serving in the Air Force during World War II. Thiebaud's education at San Jose State College and later at the California State University at Sacramento was integral in shaping his artistic vision. He initially dabbled in various styles, heavily influenced by the works of masters like Willem de Kooning and Robert Rauschenberg. However, Thiebaud soon developed his distinctive style, characterised by bright colours and exaggerated shadows, which became his signature approach to depicting everyday objects and landscapes.

Thiebaud’s professional career took a definitive turn in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with his iconic depictions of cakes, pastries, and toys. These works, combining realism with subtle satire, earned him recognition as a key figure in the Pop Art movement, although he maintained a unique path that straddled both pop art and traditional realism. His work received significant attention with his first solo exhibition at the Allan Stone Gallery in New York in 1962. Thiebaud's art, with its focus on the commonplace and its vibrant palette, challenged the conventional boundaries of fine art and brought him both public acclaim and critical appreciation. His later works, exploring the landscapes and cityscapes of California, continued to captivate audiences with their playful yet poignant commentary on American life. Today, Thiebaud remains an influential figure in the art world, his work a testament to a career that spans over seven decades.

Thiebaud’s career, beyond his initial success with everyday objects, is marked by significant milestones that established him as an influential figure in contemporary art. A key moment came with his inclusion in the 1962 exhibition, New Painting of Common Objects, at the Pasadena Art Museum, which was one of the first Pop Art exhibitions in America. This exhibition placed Thiebaud alongside notable artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, cementing his place in the art movement that was redefining the American aesthetic. Thiebaud’s work, with its focus on the ordinary yet with a nostalgic and introspective quality, offered a distinct voice within the movement.

Another crucial aspect of Thiebaud's legacy is his career as a teacher, which spanned over several decades at the University of California, Davis. His role as an educator was pivotal in shaping the next generation of artists. Thiebaud’s influence extended through his mentoring, where he encouraged a deep appreciation of both technique and the emotional aspects of art. His emphasis on the fundamental principles of painting and drawing, combined with his encouragement of individual expression, made his teaching as impactful as his art. In his later years, Thiebaud continued to evolve, exploring complex cityscapes and landscapes that played with perspective and vantage points. His exhibitions, such as those at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art, not only showcased his breadth of work but also underscored his influence on the trajectory of American art.

Four Pinball Machines by Wayne Thiebaud - Christie's

Image © Christie's / Four Pinball Machines © Wayne Thiebaud 1962

1. £15.2M for Wayne Thiebaud's Four Pinball Machines

Thiebaud's Four Pinball Machines (1962) attained his highest auction mark. As one of only four pinball-themed works created, this painting stands as the largest rendition, representing Thiebaud's early career in the 1960s. Remaining in private hands until 1981, real estate tycoon Donald Bren acquired it for just $143,000 USD. Evoking American nostalgia, it captures childhood joy and arcade memories, showcasing Thiebaud's meticulous skill in depicting intricate pinball mazes. His realist pop art style aligns him with luminaries like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, rendering his '60s works highly coveted among collectors. This masterpiece fetched a staggering £15.1 million (with fees) at Christie's in July 2020, marking an astounding increase from its initial sale price.

Candy Counter by Wayne Thiebaud - Sotheby's

Image © Sotheby's / Candy Counter © Wayne Thiebaud 1969

2. £11.9M for Wayne Thiebaud's Candy Counter

Crafted in 1969, Candy Counter epitomises Thiebaud's timeless allure, invoking nostalgic sentiments. This work captivates with its simplicity, portraying marzipan, candy apples, and vibrant hard candy, offering a delightful experience. Thiebaud's adept use of light and paint breathes vitality into childhood fairground treats, expertly blending abstraction with detailed precision, creating spatial depth. Despite economic challenges, Candy Counter fetched an impressive £11.8 million (with fees) at Sotheby's in May 2023, reaffirming the enduring appeal and value of exceptional artworks.

Star Pinball by Wayne Thiebaud - Christie's

Image © Christie's / Star Pinball © Wayne Thiebaud 1962

3. £8.9M for Wayne Thiebaud's Star Pinball

Featured in the May 2024 New York sales, Christie's showcased Thiebaud's Star Pinball (1962) as one of its standout lots in the 20th-century sale. This marked the first appearance of a Thiebaud Pinball machine at auction since his record-breaking sale in 2020. Against a vibrant yellow backdrop, Thiebaud's unmistakable aesthetic shines through, characterised by meticulous attention to detail and precise geometries. His adeptness at capturing shadows adds depth to the painting. Realising £8.9 million with fees, the artwork achieved a price well within the estimated range, cementing its position as one of Thiebaud's highest valued works on the secondary market.

Encassed Cakes by Wayne Thiebaud - Sotheby's

Image © Sotheby's / Encased Cakes © Wayne Thiebaud 2010 - 2011