Prompted by my former gallery director, the late Phil Desind, to make a "straightforward flower picture" I came up with this one.  Painting from real flowers, particularly roses, means running to a local florist, sometimes begging for the ones that are a bit past their prime, usually twice a week, until the flowers are all finished.  My florist is a good sport.  Phil owned Capricorn Galleries in Bethesda, Maryland, and this painting will always be considered a tribute to him.  Other paintings featuring flowers are Summer Garden, Dana's Flowers, Vase of Roses With Dark Narrative Under Currants and Mona Lisa Dances With Poppies. The tall black and brass vase is a favorite, and is used in Mona Lisa Dances With Poppies and The Studio (Closet).