Iowa City

Kalona Mayor Mark Robe has a passion for photography, and some of his best work was recently displayed at the Iowa City Gallery Walk.

The five photos Robe featured were taken in SouthTown, at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area in Iowa City and at the Washington County Emergency Communication Center.

Three photos were taken in SouthTown: “Reflection,” showing houses reflected in the water on a sunny day; “Nesse,” featuring a branch sticking out in a snowy scene; and “Frozen Lake,” capturing the lake during winter. Speaking about “Nesse,” Robe said, “I call that Nesse because it looks like a Loch Ness monster.”

“Storm Clouds” was taken at the Washington County Emergency Communication Center, while the fifth photo, “American Beauty,” shows eagles perched in a tree.

Robe took “Storm Clouds” in April while at the Washington County Emergency Communication Center in Washington, capturing an approaching storm. “American Beauty” seemed to be a favorite among attendees.

All five photos were taken with his phone. Although Robe owns a camera, he prefers using his phone to take pictures.

The photos will remain on display throughout October, and anyone interested in purchasing one can buy it from Robe.

Robe has been taking pictures for many years. He told Cheryl Allen that he has been sharing his photography on social media for about a decade.

“I got started just taking pictures of the sky, sunrises, sunsets and clouds.” “I actually belong to a group on Facebook called ‘Keep Your Eyes to the Sky.’ I have probably been posting on social media for 10 years or more.”

The art reception took place Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Other artists displaying their work included local photographer Carol Carlson and Jo Myers-Walker, a lifelong watercolor artist, illustrator and art instructor.

During the reception, many visitors stopped by Robe’s display, where he discussed his photographs, why he took them and what inspired him.

His photos will be on display throughout October at the Historic Post Office Gallery at the Iowa City Senior Center, located at 28 S. Linn Street in Iowa City. Visitors can view the exhibit during business hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.