Path of Portraits celebrates the people who make Charlotte what it is. From artists and activists to organizers, entrepreneurs, and everyday neighbors, this series highlights individuals whose lives and contributions have shaped the city across generations.

Through commissioned portraits by local artists, the exhibit brings forward stories that reflect Charlotte’s diversity, creativity, and resilience—especially those that have often been overlooked or left out of traditional historical narratives. Each portrait invites visitors to see the city through the experiences of the people who live, work, and create here.

Path of Portraits is not just about looking back—it’s about recognizing that Charlotte’s story is still being written. Visitors are invited to add their own portrait and help choose future subjects, reinforcing the idea that history is made by community and belongs to all of us.

The project began in 2021 at the African American Heritage Festival as a collaboration with Charlotte Is Creative, when four local artists were invited to create portraits honoring influential Black Charlotteans. Since then, the series has continued to grow, with 15 portraits commissioned as of 2025 and more planned for 2026. Click on the name of the subject to read their story and learn about the artist.

Featured Subjects and Local Artists:

• George E. Davis, painted by Ricky Singh (2021)
• Ishmael Titus, painted by Mikayla Binter (2021)
• Nance & Child, painted by Abel Jackson (2021)
• John Schenck, painted by Kalin Davone (2021)
• Sarii, painted by Alex Osborn (2022)
• Thereasea Clark Elder, painted by Art Rogers (2023)
• John Lawson, painted by Lucy Phung (2023)
• J. Charles Jones and the Charlotte Sit-Ins Movement, painted by Taylor Turner (2023)
• Mary Jackson McCrorey, painted by Jennifer Minnis (2024)
• Ella May Wiggins, painted by Isaiah Kidd (2024)
• Elijah Granger, painted by Andrew Raquan (2024)
• Dan Ramirez, painted by La'Porscha Smith (2024)
• Olma Echeverri, painted by Emily Nunez (2024)
• Mary Sample Alexander, painted by Nony (2024)

The exhibit and related artist conversations are made possible in part through support from the Arts & Science Council.