It seems that these images evoke a definate positive/negative reaction from people, as there have been no in-between responses.
Acacia: I didn't follow up on the Touch Drawing technique at the artists website, because dabbing a work in progress with screwed up paper (or any other material) is a common practice, especially with water-colour paintings. The artist clearly saw a marketing value in it and acted on it, successfully it seems.
HearthCricket: You found them depressing and disturbing.... I can relate to this description. When looking at the cards I don't feel personally disturbed, but do have doubts about the artists' state of mind/emotions. They remind me of doodles, those odd unconcious 'drawings' that people sometimes do.
Debra: The 'tormented soul' description is probably the best way to describe them!
Lark, Raeanne & Strangebrew: The cards obviously have an appeal for you. Maybe as Faolainn Storm says, they hit a 'deep spot' inside you.
Thank you all for your opinions. I think I've decided that I could use this deck, but only for special circumstances, preferably not personal ones!
Bee