Los Angeles-based surrealist Alexandra Dillon brings back to life things that people throw away in the most charming way. Dillon scavenges worn out paintbrushes and other common objects to use them as canvases for portraits of imaginary people.

"My characters come to me the way [they do to] novelists," Dillon told Bored Panda. "They show up and tell me who they are." The artist doesn't start with a specific idea. "I never quite know who will show up," Dillon said. She allows the "soul" of a particular object to "shape" its face. Because of that, her characters range from a mysterious lady on a cleaver to a shady guy on a paintbrush.

"I work on each piece over the course of several days," Dillon said. "They often change and grow into themselves more fully. When I have found the emotion and personality of a character, I know I'm finished."

The artist said she loves making these small portraits. "It's like meeting a new friend every day. I get to paint faces and conjure character in a way that is more fun than just working on a canvas." Scroll down to check out Dillon's gang and upvote your favorite personalities!

More info: alexandradillon.com | Facebook | Instagram (h/t laughingsquid)