The first collaborative project for The Contemporary, Expanded Field, was an iterative public art project commissioned by the City of Greater Geelong through their 2020 Arts Industry Commissions program. This project was conceptualised and delivered by Ilana Russell.

Expanded Field was developed as a mode of enquiry into public and civic spaces in Geelong through the framework of an artist laboratory and public outcome.

Facilitated by artists, academics and architects Steven Rhall, Phip Murray, Vicki Hallet and Jose Rodriguez; the laboratory was designed to explore the City through spatial practice, architecture and phenomenological interventions.

The Expanded Field laboratory allowed space for experimentation, critical dialogues and interdisciplinary collaboration, acting as a locus for the development of a series of text-based works installed throughout the City from January - March 2022.

Installed on streets and buildings, the text pieces situate the conversations from the Lab back in the city itself.