Farnsworth Scenics gallery is a welcome addition to the Montrose art scene. Inside the small gallery, visitors find stretches of pristine alpine scenery, stunning nightscapes and unique photos that are both edifying and beautiful.

Vince and Maggie Farnsworth own the gallery, and have been involved in art for many years.

Vince is a self-taught photographer, who worked for many years as a scientist in southern California. When the Farnsworths were contemplating retirement, they visited Montrose and fell in love with it. They bought a piece of land and moved to town 11 years ago. It was the beginning of a love affair with photography, featuring the many gorgeous, nearby locations.

They considered opening their own gallery for several years.

“We thoroughly researched the area and read a lot of books on starting up a business,” Vince said. “We were ready to give it a try!”

“A pro demonstrates great patience and is willing to research the subject matter, the locale and the different lighting opportunities. A pro has confidence in what he or she is doing.”

Eventually they dismissed the idea as not economically viable. But fate stepped in, and the Farnworths were given an opportunity that was too good to refuse. Now they’re spending their retirement working on this passion project.

“Why not do something that gives you satisfaction?” Vince said.

The images on display are breathtaking. Vince captures every minute detail in a scene and delivers it with crisp, dedicated accuracy and heartfelt emotion. To achieve similar results, he said photographers must know and respect the rules of art.

“A pro never stops learning,” he said. “He or she is willing to spend countless hours perfecting their art, both in the field and in the digital darkroom. A pro demonstrates great patience and is willing to research the subject matter, the locale and the different lighting opportunities. A pro has confidence in what he or she is doing.”

Some of his photos were shot at 1 or 2 a.m. He said it’s critical to be at the right place and right time. He remembers once being stalked by a bobcat in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. He hung in there until he got his shot. It was one of his most frightening and hazardous experiences, but the resulting photograph was worth it.

Maggie doesn’t consider herself a serious photographer. She does dab-ble, but most of her photography is family or travel-driven.

“Why should I bother when I have an expert on hand who does it so well?” she said.

And Vince does do it well. A recent visitor was curious about a photo of the Milky Way hanging in the shop. When he found out what it was, he was speechless. Coming from a big city, he’d never seen it.

Maggie says that’s one of the benefits of having the gallery—it’s always great to see people blown away by the skill and expertise of the photographer.

Farnsworth Scenics, 3358 Mahogany Dr., Is located at the entrance to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. To learn more, call 252-1641 or visit www.farnsworthscenics.com.