Roses and Tulips were done according to long-range commercial prospects that presented themselves in my work. They represented somewhat of a hiatus from my regular focus, but also as a challenge to and broadening of my expressive range. They were expected to lead to a more obvious merging with my other work in the future. In this regard I was as much interested in the backgrounds and abstract qualities of the images as I was with the subjects. The earth-tones and greys were a symbol and signal of more "tasteful" elements to come without sacrificing the playful, ironic spirit that is at the heart of what I do. The paintings were actually an affirmation of the strength of my individual style.