California Beetle, by Jens Ochlich

Jens, a native of Germany, embarked on a journey to California in 2000, driven by a desire to rediscover the quintessential "TV America" depicted in the shows he watched during his upbringing in West Germany amid the Cold War era of the 70s and 80s. Amidst the vibrant landscape of Southern California, he uncovered a trove of captivating scenes, illuminated by the warm glow of the sun. A significant focus of his work revolves around Americana, particularly classic American cars, reflecting his nostalgic yearning for the bygone era of his youth.

While rooted in reality, Jens's photography transcends mere documentation, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as Julius Shulman and Stephen Shore, influenced by a childhood immersed in Surrealism and Bauhaus aesthetics. His thematic range spans urban nightscapes, decayed urban environments, minimalist compositions, architectural studies, automotive imagery, and occasional forays into street photography. Through his lens, Jens captures the essence of a nostalgic longing intertwined with the modern-day allure of Americana.