How can one access the source image for the avatar image?

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When an image is uploaded, I assume the avatar image (/files/avatar) is created from a source using the global dimensions. I would like to access the source image and resize it for use in a special membership display. This is my first venture into the depths of C5, so hopefully I have the basics below.

The values are stored in an array and one of the values is the UserInfo ($ui).
I also have

$ih = Loader::helper('image'); // For image
$av = Loader::helper('concrete/avatar');

I can get the avatar image using

$avatarImgPath = $av->getImagePath( $ui, false );

How can I get the source image for the avatar?

Much appreciated...

Todd

rtcary