On Friday, July 30, downtown welcomed its newest public art exhibit with the installation of Slipstream by Milligan Studios of St. Paul. The sculpture, comprised of bronze, steel, and kiln-formed architectural recycled glass can be read from afar as a leaping fish or a river. Up close, one will see a community of diverse fish swimming along in two slipstreams, encircled with intertwining steel arteries representing highways. Slipstream honors Charles Merritt Babcock who developed the Minnesota Highway system and pays homage to the rich history of the city which grew along the Mississippi River whose banks it will enhance.
“The Bank of Elk River is pleased to sponsor the “SlipStream” artwork that has recently been installed in downtown Elk River. The art thoughtfully represents the importance Elk River has had on travel and commerce throughout history. The art highlights the confluence of the Mississippi and Elk rivers as well as highway 10 and other transportation systems. As the President of The Bank of Elk River and a Babcock, I’m appreciative of the opportunity to participate in this project that, in part, showcases Charles Babcock’s involvement with commerce and the highway/transportation system in Minnesota”, said John Babcock, grandson of Charles Merritt Babcock and president of The Bank of Elk River.”
Slipstream is located at the eastern entrance to downtown Elk River, visible from Highway 10/Main Street/Parrish Avenue on the east side of Granite Shores Luxury Apartments. This public art exhibit was made possible by a grant from the Central Minnesota Arts Board, funds from Elk River’s Economic Development Authority, and generous contributions by The Bank of Elk River, First Bank Elk River, Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Gleitz - State Farm Insurance, Forterra and Granite Shores Luxury Apartments.