Solana Beach employee featured at City Hall Gallery

By Kristina Houck

From Monday through Friday, David Kloz works as a management analyst for the city of Solana Beach. When he’s not at work, Kloz is often outside with a camera.

A collection of his photos is currently on exhibit at his workplace, the Solana Beach City Hall. It’s the amateur photographer’s first ever show.

“I’m curious to see what the response is going to be,” Kloz said. “We all see the world in a different light.”

From surfers to sunsets, “Stills of Solana Beach” features about 70 photos of the community. Installed July 9, the free exhibit is open through Aug. 15 at the City Hall Gallery.

Kloz shot many of the photos while riding his bike or taking the train to and from work.

“There are so many great subjects and objects around here,” said Kloz, who started with the city seven years ago, initially as an accountant.

Originally from the Czech Republic, Kloz recalled playing with a camera when he was 8 years old. His interest stemmed from his grandfather, a professional artist, who specialized in photography and pencil drawings. His hobby didn’t become serious until about 10 years ago, however.

“Sometimes you don’t realize the things you truly enjoy until later,” he said.

Kloz relocated to the United States when he was 21 years old. He studied at Point Loma Nazarene University before finishing his bachelor’s degree in accounting at Cal State San Marcos. He worked as an accountant for the city of San Diego for about five years before coming to Solana Beach, where he now works in the city’s Human Resources Department.

The Oceanside resident spends much of his free time as a freelance photographer. His work has been featured in a variety of publications.

Whether art along the Coastal Rail Trail, or the sea cliffs along the shoreline, Kloz said he enjoys capturing the beauty of the community that some pass by every day.

“There is something beyond us in this world. It’s just nice to see it from a different angle,” Kloz said. “My dream is to capture things so people can also see things in a different way.”

The exhibit is open through Aug. 15 at the Solana Beach City Hall, located at 635 South Highway 101. A reception is set for Aug. 1. The free event will take place from 6-8 p.m.

For more information about Kloz and his work, visit ageofaquariusphotography.com.

For more information about the City Hall Gallery, visit www.ci.solana-beach.ca.us.