The new art collection at New England Cancer Specialists is a vibrant and thoughtfully curated showcase of locally inspired art. With Maine roots as the common thread, the collection’s bright colors and unexpected details bring warmth and energy to the space.
While the Center’s previous art was selected primarily by staff and volunteers, the new building called for a more extensive approach. TurningArt partnered with the NECS art selection committee to preserve that personal touch while providing professional support in project planning and installation.
The new building was designed with the patients in mind, with exceptional attention given to the finishes and light in the space. The art was chosen with the same level of care, resulting in a welcoming, uplifting environment that feels deeply personal and distinctly Maine.
From Jack Confrey, the Art Advisor
“What makes this project especially meaningful is its deep connection to Maine. Much of the work involved sourcing artists from across the state and the Southcoast, resulting in a meaningful collection that connects the space to the local community.
Throughout the curation process, it was important to keep the facility’s purpose at the center of every decision. The space is designed for patients, so we selected artwork that feels thoughtful, unique, and soothing. Each piece was chosen to bring comfort and visual ease, especially in the infusion bays.
Volunteers Phyllis Dickey and Sandi Donnelly, who have previously supported NECS art initiatives, were wonderful collaborators. With their artistic backgrounds and keen eyes, they helped shape a collection that is both bold and vibrant. The shared Maine connection across all the works ties the space together beautifully. The project is deeply personal to everyone involved, and the care taken to prioritize the patient population and include the local artist community is evident in the final product."
From Phyllis Dickey, Art Committee Member & Former Art Director:
“It was an honor to be selected for the committee choosing the art for the new Cancer Center in Westbrook, Maine. Having worked in a gallery for over ten years and curated the art for the last several years at the existing Cancer Center, it warmed my heart to be involved with Claire Cote and Sandy Donnelly as we collaborated with TurningArt on this project.
Jack Confrey’s presentation gave us a clear starting point, and we were able to determine the process and scope of the project during our first meeting. Based on our shared vision, additional pieces were added to the curation as artists were carefully selected from Maine and the Southcoast region. Jack was very receptive to our specific needs for aesthetics, scale, and placement, and the final collection is a successful product of collaboration.
On each installation day, the crews were organized, efficient, and very professional as they quietly and accurately placed each piece. Jack and I were able to review and adjust the placement based on the physical space. It was so rewarding to hear positive feedback from patients and staff, even just as we were installing the artwork.
Turning Art stands behind their quality and respects the clients. Our collection was thoughtfully curated with genuine care for the patients and staff at the forefront of every decision. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Jack on this project, and I’d be happy to work with TurningArt again!”
To see more of TurningArt's work on-site, head over to our installation gallery. To learn more about our programs, set up a free consultation with an Art Advisor here!