GREENFIELD — For four years, Ginny Newton of Erving has decorated the oncology ward hall at Baystate Franklin Medical Center with photos by local artists, a simple gesture to brighten the days of patients and their families.
The current exhibit will be Newton’s last, as she has decided to focus on her health and her family, she said. When fall rolls around, Newton will hand the baton to fellow artist Judy Cummings.
In honor of the 1,200 volunteer hours she contributed by arranging a new show every three months, Newton’s final exhibit will include 21 of her own photos.
“Seeing the finished show, once it’s on the walls, images are so different on a computer than once you’ve framed them and hung them,” Newton said. “It just absolutely comes to life in a completely different way.”
The show, titled “Here and Now,” includes pictures from her two most cherished places: Franklin County and Martha’s Vineyard. Her local photos capture an array of recognizable sites including Greenfield’s Main Street, Turners Falls’ Unity Park, Poet’s Seat Tower, the Quabbin Reservoir and a maple syrup container from Davenport Farm. It will be on display for the next few months, Newton said, without a specific end date.
Among the perks of photography, Newton said, is that it compels her to explore Franklin County and find hidden gems in the region.
“You look for inspiration in different areas,” Newton said.
Volunteer Services Manager Becky George said Newton’s exhibits help provide hospital attendees comfort during a period that is often difficult for patients.
“If somebody’s making an effort to make something more beautiful, or peaceful, or creative, I think that changes how you feel when you’re coming into the hospital,” George said. “It makes you feel like you’re being cared for in a different way than it would be if this was an empty hallway.”
Reach Grace Bird at gbird@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 280.