By Robert Kanehl The first of four art shows to be held this year at The Gallery at InterCommunity Health Center opened Thursday, January 16 at 267 Main St. On display are 19 pieces of evocative art, the work of 15 local artists. Entitled “Light Through Darkness” the exhibit is on display through March 28. At the opening reception, guest curator and Board Member of the Gallery, Alex Ranniello, explained how numerous pieces of art were received, and were selected by a group of Intercommunity representatives.The show had judges ask how each artist captured light in their pieces, some the diminished light during the winter season; others the increasing light of the coming year. A wide range of mediums were effectively used to express this theme. InterCommunity Health opened The Gallery last year in an effort to allow patients and the community an opportunity to view museum-quality artwork free. Tucked behind the waiting room of the health center’s offices, between Route 2 and the Wendy’s parking lot exit, the gallery offers an unexpected location for an encounter with art, and, perhaps because of that, does indeed lift the spirit. The Gallery has been a hit. The original art space tripled since it first opened, according to InterCommunity Executive Vice-President and Chief Operational Officer Tyler Booth. Gallery hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Visitors stop at the front desk and ask to enter the gallery rooms, which are secured. Lavender of Peace by Joseph R. Gorneault, Jr. Booth explained that InterCommunity believes art helps heal. “Hundreds of studies show making and even viewing art decreases depression and anxiety,” he stated. “Art improves health, both mentally and physically as well as promote a sense of community.” That goal ties in with InterCommunity’s mission in the community: Inspiring hope and promoting the health of the whole person. All are encouraged to stop by and view the show, Light Through Darkness. In these winter months, a little light is just what everyone needs.