Providing help and creating hope in Maine
Bath, ME – When the Jessie Albert Dental and Orthodontic Center in Bath recently underwent a renovation it wasn’t just about getting the latest state-of-the-art dental equipment ─ that was a given ─ it was the art that would hang on the walls that created the most discussion and deliberation.
“We’ve all been patients ourselves, and we recognize that a visit to the dentist can be anxiety-producing, so we wanted to create a space that was warm, welcoming and promoted a healthful and healing environment,” said Dr. Meredith Davis, Clinical Director.
Charged with creating the calming effect, Office Manager Elizabeth Graff sought out the works of local artist John Gable whose scenic prints now grace the lobby, halls and exam rooms of the 5,000 square foot office.
“Art can have a true healing effect, altering one’s mood instantly so I wanted to have the best possible pieces on view for our patients,” says Graff. “And John’s works are so lovely that they seemed a perfect complement to our desire to soothe and transport patients to a comfortable space.”
Lucky for the Center, a not-for-profit program of Catholic Charities, the artist believed art isn’t just for galleries and museums either. “I often hear from people how one of my pieces made them feel or that it left a lasting impression and so I was impressed by the Center’s vision to create a better patient experience through art,” says Gable. He and his wife, Bobbi believed in what the Center represents and became such fans of the project that they ultimately donated 27 prints. Bobbi even helped choose the paint colors for the walls to best complement the art and add to the gallery-like feel.
The project gained even more momentum when local framer Mike Doucette of Just Framing in Bath provided a generous discount on materials and personally donated his time to frame and install the art. “I’m a former altar boy with a soft spot for all the good work Catholic Charities is doing in our community so I was honored to help bring this project to life,” remarked Doucette.
Now that all 27 pieces have been installed, much to staff and patients’ delight the Center is welcoming anyone from the Community to stop by and take a tour.
Jessie Albert Dental and Orthodontic Center offers comprehensive dental services and quality orthodontic care for the whole family. Founded by a mother in need of affordable dental care for her children, the Center believes state-of-the-art dental and orthodontic care should be available to everyone.
The Center is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 am – 4:30 pm and every other Friday from 7:30 am – 4:00 pm. For more information, or if you are not currently a patient and would like to be one or to schedule a tour, please call 443-9721.
Contact: Kathy Mockler, Catholic Charities Maine, 781-8550 / kmockler@ccmaine.org
For over 45 years, Catholic Charities has provided high-quality, community-based, social services to people of all faiths, beliefs, and economic backgrounds. As one of the largest human service agencies in the state, we are committed to helping children and adults overcome adversity and achieve self-sufficiency. To learn more, please visit www.ccmaine.org or call 1-800-781-8550.
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