“In September of 1979, Mr. & Mrs. Willie Nelson commissioned me to paint a tipi at their home in Colorado. Since my introduction to Willie in 1973, I have had the opportunity to create numerous artistic designs and projects for him, yet this experience was my most unique. For the next two weeks, I was able to participate in a very personal and private atmosphere that Willie and his family have here. With this inspiration, I have tried to capture the spirit that is in “Willie Blue Skies. ”
In the foothills of Mt. Evans, at about 8,000 ft., the tipi sits hidden between two parallel rock stratus. The tipi stands 27 feet tall, with a 60 foot diamater. Connected in this order: Wolf, Elk, Eagle, Moose, Steer. There are five animal totems painted with latex on the outside.”
— Steve Brooks