The BEST OF US

The Best of Us Project celebrates the everyday heroes among us: humble, resilient, and quietly extraordinary.

BEST OF US PROJECT - RON: Ron worked as a catering cook for many years. But his greatest joy was to sneak out to the front of the restaurant and spoil every kid he saw. Little faces would light up when they saw him, eager to see if the morning held g

BEST OF US PROJECT - RON: Ron worked as a catering cook for many years. But his greatest joy was to sneak out to the front of the restaurant and spoil every kid he saw. Little faces would light up when they saw him, eager to see if the morning held grapes or a cupcake. When Ron saw the photograph choices for his painting, the artist was laboring over a few images. But Ron made things easy in a flash. The Tarheel hat, it turns out, was non-negotiable. (Not for Sale.)

BEST OF US PROJECT - BLENDER: Blender worked at Target and for years, was a close friend of the artist. She always had the fanciest hair, the most perfect makeup and a bright red flower. She was everyone’s favorite cashier. When we lost Blender, it w

BEST OF US PROJECT - BLENDER: Blender worked at Target and for years, was a close friend of the artist. She always had the fanciest hair, the most perfect makeup and a bright red flower. She was everyone’s favorite cashier. When we lost Blender, it was the hardest day. The artist still keeps a red flower beside her hair brush to remind her of Blender every morning. And in some small way, keep a bit of her sparkle for always. (Not for Sale.)

BEST OF US PROJECT - MARK: After 31 years of service at the Harris Teeter on MLK and University Drive, Mark has become a beloved figure in the community, known for his warmth, consistency, and the joy he brings to both staff and customers. So beloved

BEST OF US PROJECT - MARK: After 31 years of service at the Harris Teeter on MLK and University Drive, Mark has become a beloved figure in the community, known for his warmth, consistency, and the joy he brings to both staff and customers. So beloved, in fact, he chose to be painted alongside his favorite customer, Ms. Judith. An avid cook with a heart for service, Mark is already dreaming up his next chapter in community catering. This portrait honors a local legend and the connections that make our communities strong. (Not for Sale.)

BEST OF US PROJECT - NICK: Nick has spent years working as a nail technician, and today serves in a management role in Mebane. When the artist first met him in Durham, Nick was supporting not only his children but also his parents - all under one roo

BEST OF US PROJECT - NICK: Nick has spent years working as a nail technician, and today serves in a management role in Mebane. When the artist first met him in Durham, Nick was supporting not only his children but also his parents - all under one roof. His dedication and work ethic left a lasting impression. After his portrait was shared in 2019, Nick’s son commented proudly, “That’s my dad. He’s really hard-working and supportive to our family.” His story is one of strength, sacrifice, and quiet excellence, and our community is better because of him. (Not for Sale.)

BEST OF US PROJECT - TIM: Tim has worn many hats over the years, from probation officer to maintenance team member at Macy’s. But for many in Durham, he’s best remembered as the vibrant ticket scanner at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Known for his

BEST OF US PROJECT - TIM: Tim has worn many hats over the years, from probation officer to maintenance team member at Macy’s. But for many in Durham, he’s best remembered as the vibrant ticket scanner at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Known for his infectious energy and mentorship of teen employees, Tim’s presence lit up the ballpark. His line was always the longest - and for good reason. A true community gem, Tim brings joy and kindness wherever he goes. (Not for Sale.)

BEST OF US PROJECT - JONATHAN: Jonathan is a tall, formidable man covered in tattoos who tells a great many stories of how folks misinterpret him time and time again. But in reality, Jonathan is a quiet soul with family stick figures on the back of h

BEST OF US PROJECT - JONATHAN: Jonathan is a tall, formidable man covered in tattoos who tells a great many stories of how folks misinterpret him time and time again. But in reality, Jonathan is a quiet soul with family stick figures on the back of his truck, a passion for making something out of nothing (ie dragonflies out of fan blades) and a commitment to his friend who is in school to be a barber. “Just use my hair to practice,” he tells him. “It’s fine.” (Not for Sale.)

BEST OF US PROJECT - BECKY: Becky is a waitress who was, in equal measure, thrilled to have her painting made and terrified to have her photo taken. Although the vision originally centered around Becky pouring coffee for her favorite morning customer

BEST OF US PROJECT - BECKY: Becky is a waitress who was, in equal measure, thrilled to have her painting made and terrified to have her photo taken. Although the vision originally centered around Becky pouring coffee for her favorite morning customer, we settled for a cash register image instead. Becky says she adores this painting and so, perhaps we landed just right after all! (Not for Sale.)

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