Originally I wanted to create images specific to my solo exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Cleveland–to make paintings that the people of Cleveland would know were just for them, and to make the My American Dream narrative all-inclusive. In my travels with my great friend and art dealer Brett Shaheen, we went to the famous Cleveland Lake View Cemetery, where so many historical figures are buried, and which includes the great Wade Chapel, the interior of which is covered with commissioned Tiffany windows. At the far end of the chapel is this incredible stained-glass window, that has the epitome of the Tiffany genius (and its era) put forth, the beauty of the stained glass and artistry mixed into the very felt religiosity of the subject compelled me as much as an El Greco religious painting.

My best friend Dan Knapp, to whom this show is dedicated, recently passed away from an automobile accident, and I did this directly after the event to give myself, and my great friend, some peace, listening to his favorite music and being compelled by my thoughts and love for him.