Juniper Rag and Spectrum Health Systems Partner to Bring “Artists Touched by Addiction” Collection to Life
Local artists impacted by addiction featured throughout Worcester outpatient treatment center
Worcester, MA – March 17, 2025 – Spectrum Health Systems and Juniper Rag have partnered to bring the healing power of art to clients, visitors and employees of Spectrum Health Systems’ 1023 Main Street outpatient treatment center. “Artists Touched by Addiction” is an art installation featuring a vibrant and colorful grouping of pieces made by local artists impacted by substance use and addiction designed to instill positivity and foster a space for healing and reflection.
“Healing is a multifaceted journey, and art has the power to bring new dimensions to that process,” said Heidi DiRoberto, Regional Executive Director at Spectrum Health Systems. “This partnership with Juniper Rag and the ‘Artists Touched by Addiction’ collection is a testament to our commitment to creating an environment that supports both recovery and personal growth. The artwork will not only enhance the atmosphere of our facility but also offer an opportunity for reflection, connection and hope for our clients, staff and visitors.”
This partnership underscores Spectrum Health Systems’ commitment to supporting recovery, well-being, and meaningful contributions to the community. Juniper Rag was selected for advisory, curatorial, and installation services to bring this initiative to life. Curated, artists included in the acquisition include Ella Delyanis, Nancy Wright, Rosemary Mamakos, Howard B. Johnson, Jr., Sasha Knittel, Patti Kelly, Linda Cordner, Theresa Hersman, Denise Lafer, Kathryn Shagas, Patricia Busso, Piya Samant, and Michelle May.
“By far, this project has been deeply meaningful and we are grateful to Spectrum for envisioning this collection. Developing this display marks a pivotal moment in recognizing art as an absolutely critical tool for healing, and we are seeing the ripple effects and outpouring from artists in ways we only could have imagined,” said Michelle May, Co-Founder of Juniper Rag. “By supporting artists that have been touched by addiction in some way - as children, as witness or as parents - we are not only honoring their creative journeys but also fostering a dialogue about resilience and hope with all who encounter conversations about this project.”
Juniper Rag, co-founded by Michelle May and Payal Thiffault, is an active and community-driven arts platform from Atelier ID Global with a long-standing reputation for championing significant contemporary artists and fostering innovative collaborations that bring communities together.
Artists have contributed meaningful and vulnerable personal stories about their experiences that provide further celebration and connections. One artist’s response to receiving the acceptance news was: “I was overcome with emotion and cried tears of joy. I don't usually cry when I receive art news, but this was different. The depth of the emotions I was feeling were rooted in memories of three loved ones who departed this existence while burdened with addiction. If one person feels positive emotions when looking at my work when it is on the walls of Spectrum’s treatment center, my efforts will be rewarded. I feel grateful and honored to be chosen by Spectrum.”
To learn more about Spectrum Health Systems, please visit: www.spectrumhealthsystems.org. To learn more about Juniper Rag, please visit www.juniperrag.com.
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About Spectrum Health Systems
Based in Westborough, Mass., and founded in 1969, Spectrum Health Systems, Inc. is a private, non-profit substance use and mental health treatment provider. Spectrum offers the largest and most complete continuum of addiction treatment in New England – including medical detoxification, residential rehabilitation, outpatient services, medication for substance use disorder and peer recovery support. Spectrum also offers inpatient detoxification and clinical stabilization for commercially insured and private pay clients through its subsidiary, The New England Recovery Center.
About Atelier ID Global and Juniper Rag
Atelier ID Global is a women-owned creative agency co-founded by Payal Thiffault and Michelle May with 40+ combined years of experience. We craft captivating brands, launch start-ups and market small to medium-sized businesses, unlocking your potential. Juniper Rag, is a curatorial project to elevate artists by Atelier that empowers and showcases artists and creatives, creative organizations and events to a global audience.
Kathryn Shagas, Light on Water
