Maplewood Dental Arts located at 405 Main Street in Gorham has initiated a program to contribute to the community in a unique way.

Owner Andrea Taliento, DMD, who purchased the business three years ago from Dr. Ronald Seekins after practicing there for eight years, had been pondering about putting her stamp on the business while keeping continuity for her patients’ comfort. She began working with Tamara Niedzolkowski of Refresh Dental for assistance with that transition. Together they brainstormed the idea to showcase local artists’ work throughout the premises.

“I have loved music and art since I was very young. When going to college I had to make a tough decision to focus on the sciences rather than the arts. So having an art show in my office just felt right,” Taliento said.

Beginning in the fall of 2017, a single artist has displayed a dozen or more works in the waiting room, halls, and offices for a six month period. The art is labeled and many pieces are available for purchase. A complete list of the presented works is kept at the front desk and available upon request.

Displaying art helps the community in several ways. First, it gives local artists a place to showcase their work, and perhaps even sell a piece or two. It also makes for better working conditions for the employees of Maplewood Dental Arts. Who wouldn’t prefer to gander at a 16 x 20 photograph of the canyons in Utah than a blank white wall while they work? But by far the biggest win is the calm it brings to the patients. “Rather than sitting and worrying in the waiting room, they wander the office and view the art they may never have had a chance to see otherwise. It takes their minds off upcoming procedures and results in a better experience for all,” said Taliento.