Research Background: The group exhibition Tether interconnects the diverse art practices of Griffith University arts researchers through underlying themes and approaches. The participating artists, Mulder, Giles, Anderson, Wareham, and Wellisch, aimed to expose concealed knowledge and go beyond mere sensory input. Probing the underlying layers of our social, cultural, and political reality to find new ways to re-evaluate our existence and relationship to each other. The exhibition consisted of photography, installation, and video works in the main exhibition space of the gallery.

Research Contribution: Mulder created the artwork specifically for this exhibition, focusing thoughts on global mobility and accessibility in her making. In this exhibition, Mulder had to re-consider the usual mode of working to create an installation piece that would be lightweight and easily transportable in a suitcase. This required her to find alternative materials and new methods to make this work. Best Laid Plans, is a large hanging artwork that is made from lightweight materials and completely collapsible to fit into a small suitcase. This attribute contributes significantly to Mulder’s exploration of migration, the physical and emotional baggage, as well as only being able to transport the essentials (for those fortunate that can do so).

Research Significance: The gallery curated other exhibitions concurrently with Tether and included exhibitions from Sydney, Melbourne, and Tasmania. As researchers from Griffith University, the group established connections with the University of Tasmania (UTAS) and visited the Hobart and Launceston campuses. During each visit, Mulder and Wellisch presented their research and exhibition to post-graduate researchers and academic staff. The gallery arranged an artist talk in a panel format that was well attended.