Lomonosov took notice of his talent in walrus ivory carving (a folkcraft traditionally practised in Kholmogory) and helped him join the newly established Imperial Academy of Arts, where his instructor, Nicolas-François Gillet, was so impressed with his abilities that he had Shubin awarded with a gold medal, which opened to him the prospect of furthering his education abroad.
Lomonosov became aware of Shubin's natural ability in walrus ivory sculpture, a traditional craft from Kholmogory. He helped Shubin enroll in the Imperial Academy of Arts, where his instructor, Nicolas-François Gillet, was so impressed that he gave him a gold medal, which enabled Shubin to explore further education outside Russia.