MIKE THURK - M.THURK PHOTOGRAPHY

UNTITLED PROJECT. The conversation surrounding fires in Colorado has become so frequent, that its constant presence feels as though it could be categorized as weather. But it isn’t. It’s a result of a multitude of factors, and through this project I intend to explore each of them. Since 2021, I’ve been building a project which explores the cascading effect that Fire is having on Colorado’s landscape, culture, and communities, with the goal to ultimately examine its impact on the entire western United States. I’ve split this project into chapters (1- 5) and will be posting progress here, and a denser version on my website. I am currently looking to connect with those who are involved with or affected by these fires in a wide range of capacities, as well as funding through grants to support this project. Connections to either are welcomed. Please follow along as I continue to explore this deeply personal project. COLORADO - 2025

ADVENTURE. (updated 030326) A selection of my winter based adventure photography. COLORADO - 2020 to Present

ACTIVISM. (updated 021826) As Nina Simone states “ An artist’s duty, as far as I’m concerned, is to reflect the times.” This selection of photographs, taken in Denver over the course of 2025 to the present day, are a reflection of the rallies and protests I have witnessed. A reflection of the times. DENVER, CO - 2025 to Present

These stories don’t exist to be consumed. They exist to be witnessed. As a first time filmmaker, it was an honor to premiere @sharazaia ’s film at No Man’s Land in Denver—and now, on the east coast in the heart of Appalachia. Shara’s hope is that “Sharp Edges” becomes a gentle reminder to not dull the parts of ourselves that make us unique, will help educate folks on who the Assyrians are and remind them that they are still here despite genocide and ongoing persecution in our ancestral homeland and beyond. Flagship is a gathering rooted in feminism, art, advocacy, and the belief that storytelling can move culture forward. Because equity doesn’t arrive on its own. Because art is one of the most powerful tools we have to disrupt the status quo.✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾 What began as a response to erasure has grown into a global platform for women, trans, genderqueer, Black, Indigenous, and multiracial filmmakers to claim space, challenge norms, and tell the stories that matter.🗣️ 🎬 No Man’s Land Film Festival’s 1st Annual Asheville Flagship Festival honors the power of film as a force for resistance, remembrance, and reclamation with over 2 World Premieres + 6 adventure shorts, live music, guest speakers, swag and more! 🎟️Tickets are moving. Don’t get FOMO. See you at this Friday, 4/24. 📸Cover photo by @mthurk from the film “Sharp Edges”. Written by: @sharazaia  
Directed + Produced by: @max_haimowitz + @sharazaia Edited by: @olympus.blue  + @orionowens Director of Photography: @max_haimowitz Cinematography: @nate_dodge  @natestephens1  + @average_sean Photography: @mthurk  @max_haimowitz Graphic Design: @rabelbetshmuel Key Cast: @sharazaia  @whoop_darious  @sheneenagins + @christyann_win #nomanslandfilmfest #nmlff #undefinefeminine

UNTITLED. LODGE GRASS, MT. - May - 2025

A love letter, to all the women of color carving space in the outdoors: you belong. 🌿✨ Belonging isn’t given; it’s made. And the courage and joy you bring to these spaces ripple far beyond the mountains, forests, and rivers — shaping a world where everyone can feel seen. No Man’s Land makes its grand entrance with our 1st Annual Asheville Flagship Festival on April 24. Join us in two weeks for an evening that blends film, music, advocacy, and straight-up magic at @wickedweedfunkatorium ! Expect a powerful lineup of films that challenge norms and amplify voices too often left out of the mainstream — including the premiere of “Sharp Edges” at our Asheville Flagship. We’re bringing the energy with a live performance by indie all-star duo @lvdy.music , our iconic Women’s Athlete Panel featuring three of your favorite lady legends in climbing, TWO World Premieres, giveaways, and endless stoke. Spicy ramen, body glitter, and seating at our event will be limited. Grab your pass and get there early! Love & solidarity, No Man’s Land 📸 Cover photo by @mthurk from the film “Sharp Edges” — making its Asheville Premiere on April 24th. Directed + Produced by @sharazaia + @max_haimowitz @deserttripproductions #nomanslandfilmfest #nmlff #undefinefeminine

UNTITLED. LODGE GRASS, MT. - May - 2026

UNTITLED. LODGE GRASS, MT. - May - 2025

THE SELKIRKS. The first of ten days in Canada, delivered. VISTA LODGE, B.C. - March - 2026

Cool off with some 📸 from @eldoramtnresort Morning Grind 3 courtesy of @mthurk ! ❄️ Only 304 days to the next Morning Grind. 😅

ELDORA, UPHILL. It was still dark and the snow fell with increasing intensity. Sophia and I were at the base of Eldora Mountain, waiting for the final race of their uphill series to commence. It had been weeks since I had last been in the falling snow and I could feel it heal something inside of me. The objective was completely creative in intention. There was no question to answer other than “What do you see?” *photos 14,15,16 taken by @lemenphoto NEDERLAND, CO. - February - 2026

BLUEBELL WILDFIRE. BOULDER, CO. - March - 2026