Mark Slick is a true chronicler of life around Lake Minnetonka. The accomplished photographer seems to pop up with his camera at most popular events on the lake, and his images have won acclaim over the years in our annual Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest. Much of Slick’s work keeps him close to home; he photographs events like the annual Big Island and Back paddle and the Art on the Lake festival, creating scenes that are bright, colorful and filled with neighbors laughing, singing, paddling and talking together.
Slick also collaborates with the Nautical Archaeologists of Maritime Heritage Minnesota, an organization that researches sailing history. The group has surveyed Lake Minnetonka and discovered sunken vessels—yep, right in our own backyard—including some that sank as far back as 1879. Slick’s underwater images of the shipwrecks are beautiful, eerie and fascinating; he uses his diving and photography skills in tandem to reveal the hidden history of the lake. On his Facebook page, m.slickimages, he often shares photos from the dives. In one post, he says, “There is a rich maritime history within this system of waterways and it’s been a great privilege to help in the dive process, documenting discoveries with photographs and video.”
This summer, as you wander a local art festival, participate in a paddle or race on the lake, or even catch the diving bug yourself, keep an eye out for Slick and his camera.
Visit the facebook page here to learn more about Mark Slick’s photography and see his work.
