Last fall I was invited to speak to a new economic development group in Pittsfield, MA, called the Berkshire Creative. The self-stated mission of this organization is “to stimulate new job growth and economic opportunity in the region by sparking innovative collaborations between artists, designers, cultural institutions, and businesses.”

My good friend Leslie Ferrin of the Ferrin Gallery is one of the ring-leaders of the forward-thinking group that is working to turn this idea into a movement. Leslie and I have had many conversations over the years about the impact of art and artists on the economy, and it is exciting to see formal recognition from Berkshire Creative that ‘Creativity means Business.’

As we move into the new year, I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes by Thomas Friedman, author and reporter for the New York Times. In his book, The World is Flat, Friedman states that “Artists are the essential nurturers of our collective imaginations, and as such, play a vital role in helping us shape a new vision of a better world.”

I, for one, intend to spread this important message to as many people as will listen to it in 2008. I invite you to join me in the effort!