Hingham Whiz Kid: Brittany Flaherty

Name:    Brittany Flaherty, Age 17

 School:  Hingham High School

 Key to Awesomeness:  Following her Heart

 Accomplishments:  Brittany Flaherty’s parents tell her she has been drawing on walls ever since she was old enough to get her hands on a crayon. She mostly drew people; her sister and brothers, and created stories.

When a freshman science class challenged her, Brittany’s teacher, Mrs. Barbara Berlucchi, noticed her special talent and encouraged her natural gifts.

 “She saw me drawing in class and said ‘you’re an artist!’” Flaherty said. "[That moment] helped me to open up.”

For extra credit, Brittany drew a sketch of her “Science is Energy” concept, imagining it would be a poster for the classroom. Mrs. Berlucchi saw it as a mural.

 Now a junior at , this emerging artist realizes how deep Mrs. Berlucchi’s influence runs. Brittany recalls the time when school was not easy for her.

Since her science teacher cared enough to nurture her artistic abilities, Brittany says she has connected with her high goals, improved her grades and friendships. She is now taking advanced level English and history classes.

“Art helps me to understand my world,” Flaherty said as she spoke like a true professional.  

Since she was little, she has known that art was “her calling,” and her way of helping people.

 “My parents say I am a natural," she said "In the last couple of years, my art work has changed.  Now people are saying I can do this professionally.”

As many artists do, Brittany follows the vision.  She is currently creating a graphic novel to help people get through life situations.