Tucson Desert Art Museum, which includes Four Corners Gallery, tells the extraordinary history of the Desert Southwest through the eyes and talent of its finest artists and artisans, including Maynard Dixon, Thomas Moran, & Albert Bierstadt, to name just a few.

When I went to photograph some of the exhibits, I took Neighbor Roy as I usually do to help with photo & video shoots. I particularly appreciate fine artwork representing my beloved Southwest. But compared to Roy, I’m just a casual observer and occasional patron. Roy, however, has been a serious collector of fine Native American rugs, baskets, kachinas, and other historically important artifacts for over 40 years. I was in awe of the Desert Art Museum’s exhibits. Roy was blown away!

Greg Overton’s painting of “Touch The Clouds”.

Touch the Clouds (c. 1838 – September 5, 1905) was a Sioux chief known for his imposing height, his battle acumen, and for his skill in diplomacy. A cousin and body guard of Crazy Horse, Touch the Clouds had earned such respect that by his thirties, he was elected as head of a tribal warrior society. He assumed the leadership of the band in 1875, and was confirmed as a “shirt wearer” to fill the position of his late father. After the Battle of Little Bighorn, he took his band north, eventually surrendering and enlisting in the Indian Scouts.

When Crazy Horse was fatally bayoneted by army soldiers, Touch the Clouds remained with him for hours until the great Oglala chief died. Following the death of Crazy Horse, Touch the Clouds went to Washington DC as a delegate in treaty negotiations. Touch the Clouds became one of the leaders at the Cheyenne River Agency in 1881, and continued to be a prominent advocate for his people until his death on September 5, 1905.

Scott Overton has captured, not only the size of this big man, but also the magnificence of his inner strength. If you like western art, this is a “must see”.

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Here are just a few stunning examples from both the Museum and Gallery.