The Gero Family Endowment for Excellence in Studio Art and Art History awards travel grants for AAHD students to study and conduct research outside the United States. The Endowment was established in 2014, by Notre Dame alumna Deborah Gero.
Mae Harkins, BFA in studio art, spent two months in Ireland conducting research for her senior thesis. Her research included studying books and texts, some only available at the National Library of Ireland. Harkins also visited several galleries and art museums, including a private gallery opening at the National College of Art and Design. In addition to her research, she learned various technical skills she intends to use in her thesis installation. This included embroidery, where she discovered Limerick Lace, a rare and intricate form produced only in Limerick.
