Ms Molly gabbard

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Fulbright Postgraduate Scholar

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“My materials and methods combine stone carving and mixed media, which result in a contemporary jewellery expression. Specifically, I am influenced by the unique characteristics in animals including; fur, scales, colouring, and even personalities.”

Molly Gabbard, a recent graduate from Indiana University, has won a Fulbright Scholarship to take a residency at Gray Street Workshop in Adelaide for a year. She will research the use of animals in Australian Indigenous art, endangered Australian wildlife, and study woodcarving with internationally renowned jeweller Catherine Truman, co-founder and current partner at Gray Street.

“I will initially utilize the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute Inc. and the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery of the South Australian Museum to research the historical and current Indigenous use of animals in art,” Molly said.

She will also travel to Kangaroo Island in order to further observe and study the native wildlife in its natural habitat.

“Kangaroo Island retains more than half of its natural vegetation, is a declared conservation area, and sustains the thriving animal and bird populations such as the endangered Australian Sea Lion and the Glossy Black Cockatoo. Overall, I am intrigued by the colourings and textures of their feathers and fur coat, as well as traits for selecting a mate.”

Molly will combine her research of unique animal characteristics and indigenous art with woodcarving in order to expand on her ideas and methodology by creating a new body while a resident at Gray Street.

“Using wood as an alternative to stone will offer a range of possibilities for carving larger or delicate shapes that are either too difficult or impossible to create using marble or soapstones,” Molly said.

Molly has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design from Indiana University. She has won various awards and prizes including the Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design Area Award. Indiana University; The Dove Family Scholarship; Dean's List Indiana University. In her spare time she enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, spending time outdoors, and traveling.