United Nations Installation, Hopeland Sculptures
In this work Mulhern explores the idea of movement within a still figure, by focusing on the sculpture as an adjustable whole body. Mulhern creates an icon of a small child within the process of flying a kite. Through the use of this modern iconic figure, the viewer is lead to understand that this representation could be anyone, any child from anywhere, with the love and support that Hopeland can provide. The sculpture is meant to fill you with joy as you explore the eight kites that represent the 80 families Hopeland has assisted. His work conveys the viewer to study the dynamic imagery found within each kite as individuals and comes to express an overall uplifting movement throughout the work. The kites grow on you, slowly rising from the back and coming forward, as if you are viewing the process of flying a kite in slow motion. They lead you to this running, yet still, figure of a child, as if time has stopped just for your viewing needs. Mulhern’s sculpture uses the powerful family imagery of world-renowned photographer Nigel Barker to comment on child rights, family support, structure, love, hope and the concept of rising movement. This sculpture leaves you with joy, as the imagery stays with you.