Creative ways to produce jobs
AS HE has with the life sciences, Governor Patrick is looking to raise the profile of the state's creative economy. His business-development office has hired an industry director, Jason Schupbach, to promote and expand this buzzing hive of artists, nonprofit organizations, and businesses that generates paintings, concerts, exhibits, video games, and product designs.
The creative arts are often viewed only as culture or entertainment, rather than as a source of innovation, tax revenues, and jobs. But efforts are already underway to harness the economic potential of artistry, and Schupbach ought to build upon them.
In Brockton, for instance, city officials, the Fuller Craft Museum, the Metro South Chamber of Commerce, and the Brockton 21st Century Economic Development Corporation want to broker a marriage between artists and industry. One proposal is to have craft artists and designers meet with local manufacturers to ferret out new business possibilities. That could mean helping a foundry that makes manhole covers come up with new, well-designed products such as an innovative bike rack, says consultant Beate Becker.
Current state programs could promote both artistic and economic progress. Textile artists might want to open stores. Would-be businesses could benefit from more state-supported incubators that provide access to mentors and investors.
The Legislature could help by passing a bill filed by Representative Daniel Bosley of North Adams. The bill would bring more brain power to the issue by setting up a creative economy council in the state's Office of Housing and Economic Development.
To skeptics, such efforts are mere pandering to fads. But creativity can generate huge returns. A new National Endowment for the Arts study found that Massachusetts has the third-highest number of artists per capita. The Boston Symphony Orchestra boasts of a $167 million impact upon the state's economy. And businesses from film companies to architecture firms provide revenue, jobs, and appealing products.
The creative economy is humming along. But a strategic public effort could make it an even more powerful economic engine.
