Deval Patrick, The Arts Governor?

Obviously, it's still too early to figure out where Governor-elect Deval Patrick stands on arts funding. Everybody sez the arts are important; only the few back that up with cold cash.

So far, arts advocates have been given glimpses of hope. Kitty Dukakis and Barbara Grossman zapped us a Deval-is-pro-arts message during the campaign. And then there's the governer elect's blood connection to a certain Sun Ra.

Today, word comes that Patrick has established a committee focussed on the "creative economy." It will be headed by ICA Director Jill Medvedow.

The first forum for arts advocates is today in Worcester, at 12:30 pm at the Worcester Art Museum. That's followed on Thursday in West Barnstable at the Cape Cod Community College.

Patrick's calendar should list upcoming forums.