“Indian Sunset is also a double entendre representative of not only the painting’s strong visual, but of the decline in the Indian way of life,” Tom Gilleon explains. “I have such respect for them as a people. My goal is that my work conveys the beauty of their world and their deep-rooted connection to it.

“The painting is partially inspired by the Elton John song Indian Sunset as well. It is a compassionate song and the story he tells of the fall of a young warrior comes across even though the facts in the song aren’t necessarily correct. What is important is the emotion the music creates and that’s how he approaches his work.

“I do things a little like Elton and try to not let the facts get in the way of a good story. I’m a little more visual than historical. Many of the designs I put on the outside of a tipi would more often have been adorning the inside. I exaggerate certain things like the scale of the sun. It would never appear this large, but it is a central element to the story. Native American art does the same. If it is important, emphasize it.

“Color is another powerful component. I am looking for vibrancy and impact and try not to second guess a brushstroke. I’m painting with more confidence. I feel like I’m getting closer to how I painted at age four.”