Famous faces strike a pose in Palos Park

Local celebrities took a seat in the spotlight this October as artists brought their likenesses to life in real time during McCord Gallery and Cultural Center’s lively Portrait Exhibit. The juried showcase, presented by the Illinois chapter of the Portrait Society of America, celebrated artistry, community, and creativity through October 25, 2025.

Featuring works from more than 25 artists, the exhibit opened with a reception on October 10, where prizes were awarded by juror and artist Michael Latala. The event wrapped up with a live portrait painting session on October 25 at McCord Gallery, 9602 W. Creek Road.

Stuart Fullerton, president of the Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Art, hosted the afternoon as 20 artists painted five local figures: Nicole Milovich-Walters, Mayor of Palos Park; Jim Peterik, Grammy-winning singer/songwriter of the Ides of March and formerly of Survivor and 38 Special; Ben Kubicki, Palos Park socialite and McCord Gallery & Cultural Center board member; Todd Probasco, of Palos Heights and president of the Palos Area Chamber of Commerce; and Michael Bush, renowned rock and roll photographer.

“I am honored that McCord Gallery invited me to participate as a model for this event,” said Milovich-Walters. “It’s inspiring to see the artists at work in real time and to share that creative process with the community. McCord Gallery’s programs have been a meaningful part of my family’s life since its opening, and I am especially proud to have served on the Village Council that helped provide a home for the Gallery in its early days. McCord continues to honor the original spirit of Palos Park, an artist’s community at heart.”

Ben Kubicki could not agree more.

“Being a local celebrity model isn’t about fame – it’s about showing up for your community in whatever way you can. Sometimes that means pouring wine at one of our events, laughing with friends and reminding people that giving back can be fun. In the ‘park’, we do it with heart – and a little sparkle.”

Attendees also had the chance to cast their votes for the “Portrait Artist of Illinois” grand prize. Videographer Josh Cupp documented the event, capturing the spirit of collaboration and creativity that filled the gallery.

Carol Trzcinski, executive director of McCord Gallery, said the idea for the event was inspired by the British television show Portrait Artist of the Year, where celebrities sit for multiple artists before choosing their favorite portrait to take home. Trzcinski and pastel instructor Kim Abbati, Illinois ambassador for the Portrait Society of America, began planning the Palos Park version more than a year ago.

“The Portrait Society Exhibition at McCord Gallery offered a rare opportunity for the public to see art being created right before their eyes,” Trzcinski said. “It was a celebration of both artistic talent and the community that supports it.”

Free and open to the public, the event underscored McCord Gallery’s ongoing mission to make art accessible to all while honoring the creative legacy of Palos Park.