Budding Filmmaker Ashling Quinn

Through her years of involvement in the arts, Ashling Quinn has learned to express herself.

“Being involved in the arts has helped me to develop, reflect and come out of my shell, said the Swampscott High School senior. “I used to be really shy, and now I am more confident in myself.”

A budding filmmaker, Quinn has been involved for three years in the film program at Raw Art Works of Lynn, an afterschool program for youth interested in the arts.  She has thrived in the diverse environment, making friends as well as three short films. 

At the high school, Quinn, the daughter of Catherine and William Quinn, incorporates her filmmaking interest by taking TV production and being an active member of the Cable Club. Hosting the club’s spring auction has been a highlight, but Quinn has been involved for four years filming school events, concerts and committee meetings.  

While she took dance classes for 13 years and acted in several school productions (Damn Yankees, Durang/Durang, and Godspell), she has found her niche in the Drama Club’s technical crew.

“Tech is really fun,” she said, adding that her last two years of working the sound has been particularly satisfying.  She is looking forward to working crew for the spring musical, “Chicago.”

Next year, Quinn expects to study film and education in college.

“Filmmaking is a way of expressing myself that I want to continue with for the rest of my life,” she said.