Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
I seriously want to be Esther Chung’s friend. Every photo she sent me was filled with personality—gorgeous head wraps, vibrant glasses, and pure energy. I created several portraits for her, but this one stood out as the most powerful.
Esther Chung, RN, BSN, PHN, MICN, is a Registered Nurse and Mobile Intensive Care Nurse in the ER at LAC+USC Medical Center. Her passion? Providing holistic care to underserved communities during their most vulnerable moments in an unpredictable yet controlled chaos—alongside an incredible team of healthcare workers.
Thank you, Esther, for your dedication, courage, and heart. Your work is so much more than a job, and your impact is immeasurable.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
I would like to introduce Dapo Iluyomade, MD MBA, Chief Cardiology Fellow @ the University of Miami - Jackson Memorial Hospital. His favorite part of his job is giving good news to patients and their families. Also... his morning coffee
Thank you to Dapo for working tirelessly to help keep our communities safe and bringing a smile to our faces during such trying times. You are our heroes every day, especially today, tomorrow, and for weeks to come.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Thérèse Purcell, BSN, RN, C-EFM, a Labor and Delivery Nurse at New York-Presbyterian Hospital.
Her favorite part of the job? Laboring alongside moms and witnessing the pure joy, happiness, and love when a baby is delivered.
Thérèse was one of the first to reach out to participate in this project. Then, life got incredibly busy, and she couldn’t send a photo. When I saw this image on her IG, I knew this was the one.
Right now, many expecting moms are isolated at home, baby showers are canceled or moved to Zoom, and future parents are limiting contact with others. But nurses like Thérèse are still there, bringing new life into the world and supporting families as they step into parenthood.
Thank you, Thérèse, and to all the incredible labor and delivery teams providing compassionate care during these uncertain times.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Melissa Stucky, a Physician Assistant in the Emergency Department at Kaiser West LA. Her favorite part of the job is sending patients home feeling cared for and working alongside an incredible team of healthcare professionals.
Thank you, Melissa, for your compassion and dedication during this crisis. Your service makes a difference in thousands of lives every day, and we are grateful for your commitment to helping battle this pandemic.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Another honorary portrait recognizing the lifesaving work of first responders.
Meet Eric Shapiro, an EMT at AMR Antelope Valley. His favorite part of the job? That moment when you know you’ve genuinely made a difference.
While many of us stayed home, EMTs like Eric were on the front lines of the battle against COVID-19, responding to emergencies, providing critical care, and risking their own health to serve others. For EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters, service isn’t just a job—it’s a calling.
Thank you, Eric and all emergency responders, for your dedication and bravery. Your work saves lives.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Gaëlle Simmonds (@karma0312), an Occupational Therapist at a skilled nursing facility. Her favorite part of the job? Seeing her patients light up as they regain independence through meaningful everyday activities.
Thank you, Gaëlle, for your dedication, commitment, and courage during this challenging time. Your work deserves the deepest gratitude and admiration.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
GURL… I BOW DOWN. 🙌
Meet Dayana Maruri-Posada, an ER Nurse (RN) working frontline in the COVID-19 Quarantine & Isolation Unit in Los Angeles.
Her favorite part of the job? Receiving paramedic runs and meeting patients from all walks of life. Every person has a story—where they come from, what they’ve been through—and Dayana finds meaning in connecting with those experiences.
Dayana, thank you for showing up every single day. You and so many others in my hometown of Los Angeles are working tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Gerardo Zablah, Internal Medicine Chief Resident at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital.
His favorite part of the job? Interacting with patients and working alongside his team to provide the best care possible.
Gerardo is one of countless healthcare workers who have put themselves directly in the path of this virus, sacrificing so much in the face of an unprecedented crisis. To Gerardo and everyone at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, thank you. Your dedication, commitment, and courage deserve the deepest gratitude and admiration.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Isabella Iupe, a Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellow at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital.
Her favorite part of the job? Transferring patients out of the ICU—because it means they are getting better.
Isabella, I finally got to your portrait, and I hope it reflects your incredible work. Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and the hope you bring to your patients every day.
And to all frontline workers—thank you.
🔹 Nurses providing care for those who need it most
🔹 Healthcare technicians supporting hospitals and clinics
🔹 Truck drivers keeping supply chains running
🔹 Grocery store workers keeping shelves stocked and families fed
🔹 Teachers, school staff, and bus drivers ensuring children and families have the resources they need
🔹 College and university professors providing online learning
🔹 Electrical workers keeping us all connected
🔹 And so many others working tirelessly behind the scenes
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Jeff Johns, a Hazardous Waste Specialist at The Marathon Refinery, Los Angeles.
Jeff works daily in 100-degree heat, wearing heavy protective gear, ensuring that hazardous waste is handled safely so we all remain protected. His job is challenging, demanding, and essential to public health and safety.
Words are insufficient to thank you, Jeff, for your strength, courage, and dedication. Your work may not always be visible but is deeply valued and appreciated.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Grace Yang, Registered Nurse and Director of Clinical Information Systems at Adventist Health White Memorial.
Her role is integral to patient care—ensuring that doctors and nurses receive the critical information they need precisely when needed. Her favorite part of the job? Helping fellow healthcare workers by serving as a resource so they can focus on direct patient care.
Grace is one of many who work behind the scenes to keep hospitals running smoothly and ensure that healthcare teams have the tools and information they need to save lives.
Thank you, Grace, for your tireless efforts against COVID-19 and beyond. Your work is essential, and your dedication makes a lasting impact on countless patients.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Douglas Jackson, CEO & President of Project C.U.R.E.
I chose Project C.U.R.E. as the beneficiary of print sales and art proceeds from this digital portrait series because they are the world’s largest distributor of donated medical relief, Project C.U.R.E. bridges staggering health resource gaps by empowering doctors and nurses with the tools they need to:
✅ Treat disease
✅ Deliver vaccines
✅ Perform life-changing surgeries
✅ Ensure safe childbirth
Dr. Jackson’s favorite part of his workday? Delivering health and hope to communities worldwide through donated medical supplies.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
“Manny” Emanouel Khodadadi is an RN BSN CEN @ Keck USC Verdugo Hills Hospital in Los Angeles, CA. Manny’s favorite part of his day is seeing patients and family smile after his team; he has collaborated to make a difference. The second image is Manny and his “wingman,” Oscar! (swipe!)
big thank you to all of the front-line workers here in Los Angeles from me. Our numbers continue to rise, and you still show up every day. The front-line workers who selflessly care for our community 24/7... are heroes.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Happy Nurses Day! 🎉 Today, we celebrate all nurses and their unwavering dedication—especially Hollyanne Bly, the following portrait in this series.
Hollyanne is a Nurse Practitioner at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Buffalo, New York. Her favorite part of the job is spreading positive energy during her shifts and helping patients and their families hold onto hope in the most challenging times.
Nurses, you are the frontline heroes of care. Your tireless service shapes patient experiences and outcomes in ways that can never be fully measured. Thank you—Today and every day—for your compassion, strength, and resilience.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Mark Ernst, an RN at Renown Health—someone whose face radiates joy.
Mark’s favorite part of his workday? Healing others. Simple, yet profound. Nurses, alongside physicians and care teams, meet people at their most fragile moments, bringing hope and compassion when needed.
Thank you, Mark, for your dedication, kindness, and the healing energy you bring to your patients daily. Your work changes lives.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Sharissa Petit-Frere, BSN, Registered Nurse at Robert Wood Johnson Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.
Sharissa loves delivering babies and supporting women through labor. She describes childbirth as “truly magical,” marveling at how the human body transforms to bring life into the world. She reminds her patients:
“When you feel like giving up, remember—you are Superwoman. Once your labor is over, you’ll see just how much you can.”
Sharissa, thank you—not just for your work but also for the encouragement, strength, and care you bring to your patients. Thank you for your patience while I created this portrait!
To everyone at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center—your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. It’s easy to forget to say “thank you,” but your work is deeply valued now more than ever.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Mike Janczak, a Nursing Care Technician at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. He works in oncology, providing care for patients facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives—especially during a time when compromised immune systems make them even more vulnerable.
For Mike, the most rewarding part of his job is witnessing the transformation of patients who arrive feeling hopeless and leave the hospital in remission. That turn-around is what keeps him going.
Thank you, Mike, for your compassion, resilience, and dedication. Your work brings hope when needed most, and we extend our most profound admiration and gratitude to you and all the healthcare heroes on the front lines.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Samantha Cerimele, a Psychiatry Resident Physician at Brown University Affiliated Hospitals. With everything happening worldwide, there is no more critical time than now to invest in mental health.
Samantha’s favorite part of her job? Creating a space where patients feel safe enough to show their vulnerability. In a time of uncertainty and stress, her work is more important than ever.
On a personal note, working on these portraits has been a massive source of gratitude for me. I’ve also realized how much small habits—like exercise and creative outlets—affect my well-being. If you’re struggling, I encourage you to make room for movement, gratitude, and creativity.
Thank you, Samantha, for the work you do to support those navigating this new reality. To all healthcare workers out there, your dedication, resilience, and sacrifice do not go unnoticed.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Tamandra Morgan (@tamandra__), an OBGYN Resident Physician at UCSF. Her favorite part of the job? Witnessing the excitement and emotions of parents as they hear their baby's first cry—a moment of pure joy.
Thank you, Dr. Tamandra, for your compassion, dedication, and unwavering service. Your work impacts countless lives every day, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment and courage.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Edwin Jose, BSN, RN, an Emergency Department Nurse at Kaiser Medical Center. His favorite part of the job? Saving lives.
Thank you, Edwin, for your bravery, dedication, and selflessness. We recognize the immense risks you take to care for others during this pandemic, and we deeply appreciate your service. Because of your efforts, countless people feel safer in uncertain times. Wishing you continued safety and good health.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Let me tell you—Dr. Terri-Ann Bennett is one badass woman.
She is not only a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist at NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn but also the Director of Recruitment and Retention in the Office of Diversity Affairs at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and an Assistant Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Respect.
As someone who has spent time as a professor, I know firsthand how challenging and rewarding that path can be. Terri-Ann’s favorite part of her job? Teaching. She is passionate about shaping great doctors and empowering her patients to advocate for themselves—because they deserve greatness.
Thank you, Terri-Ann, for your leadership, dedication, and impact. As @MichelleObama said, “You embody the very best of who we are. And I know we will get through this crisis because of you.”
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Racquel Lewis Vaughn, Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at Killian Hill Dental Care (Family and Cosmetic Dentistry).
Her favorite part of the job is helping patients overcome their fear of the dentist—so much so that they actually look forward to their follow-up appointments!
Dentistry professionals face immense challenges returning to work amid a pandemic. Yet, their role in our overall health is crucial. Dr. Vaughn emphasizes that oral health is directly connected to total body health—the better your oral health, the better your overall well-being.
Thank you, Dr. Vaughn, for your dedication, care, and commitment to your patients. Your work is essential and deeply appreciated.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Nitika Dabas, Chief Cardiology Fellow at the University of Miami Hospital/Jackson Memorial Hospital.
Under normal circumstances, her favorite part of the job is safely discharging patients home—a moment of relief and joy. But during COVID, it became FaceTiming families so they could see their loved ones.
It’s crucial to remember that healthcare workers cannot shelter in place. They are not six feet away from their patients. They risk their own health every single shift, and when they go home, they worry about the safety of their families.
Thank you, Nitika, for your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to your patients. Your work means everything.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Amanda Norin, RN, BSN, at the University of Wisconsin (UW Health) Otolaryngology in Madison, WI.
Amanda's best part of every day is simple yet powerful: knowing she is making a difference.
To Amanda and all frontline workers—thank you. Your commitment to caring for our communities is deeply appreciated, and your dedication does not go unnoticed.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces from the Frontline
Meet Dr. Raj Desai, an Interventional Pain Physician in Orange County, CA. His favorite part of the job is hearing directly from patients about the relief they feel after a procedure.
I had to choose this "thumbs-up" image for his portrait—out of the many photos he sent—because in most of them, he looked absolutely exhausted. And for good reason. Medical staff everywhere work long, grueling hours to keep us safe, healthy, and pain-free.
Dr. Desai, I had SO MUCH fun creating this portrait, and I hope it reflects the energy and resilience you bring to your patients every day.
Open edition prints will be available, with sitters receiving one at cost.
💙 Proceeds will benefit Project C.U.R.E..
Warriors Project: Faces From the Frontline
Created during the pandemic, The Warriors Project is a series of portraits honoring the resilience and sacrifice of frontline workers. These pieces distill the essence of expression and gesture into their purest form, with faces constructed through a polygonal, diamond-like surface. By breaking down idiosyncratic features into geometric planes, the artwork captures the individuality and collective strength of those who stood on the front lines.
Many sitters wear masks or face coverings, a stark reminder of the time and the necessity of protection. With the lower half of the face obscured, the eyes become the most expressive element—conveying exhaustion, determination, and an unspoken connection to the viewer.
Each portrait serves as a tribute and a reflection of the moment, ensuring the faces of these everyday heroes are never forgotten.
To further document and preserve this work, I am developing a book that will feature these portraits alongside stories of resilience, loss, and courage during an unprecedented time in history.
If you want to support or exhibit The Warriors Project, please reach out.