In figurative paintings and drawings, characters are depicted in a context that removes the focus from the portrayal of distinct individuals. As opposed to portraiture, heads might be turned away, faces might be de-emphasized, the figure might be depicted within a scene that shares equal attention, characters might be depicted as allegorical representations of an idea, or the characters might be treated as replaceable actors within a drama.

The character(s) in a figurative piece can be real or imaginary. The artist might do a figurative piece to express group dynamics, social conditions, or the relationship between individuals and nature/the universe. Finally, an artist might choose this genre as a vehicle for aesthetic expression, emphasizing abstract shapes, mark making, distortions, palette exploration, etc.

Featured: The Dance of the Pleiades by Elihu Vedder.