Exploring the Soulful Portraits of Alexandra Dillon’s Imagined Characters

Los Angeles-based artist Alexandra Dillon has taken the art of portraiture to new heights by painting imagined people on found objects. From rusty axes to vintage padlocks, Dillon lets the object itself inspire the personality of the character she creates.

More: Alexandra Dillon, Instagram h/t: boredpanda

What sets Alexandra’s work apart is her use of paintbrushes, the very tools she uses to create her art. Her painted portraits on paintbrushes have garnered international media attention and a devoted following on social media. Inspired by historical styles like Roman-Egyptian mummy portraits and Old Master painting, Dillon’s paintbrush people range from regal women to shady characters, each with their own unique story to tell.

For Alexandra, the process of creating these surrealistic pieces is a joyous one. “I just love making these pieces,” she says. “I never know who is going to show up.” With each new piece, Dillon continues to expand her collection of whimsical and thought-provoking works of art.