Unveiled in May 2024, the Dublin Portal is positioned facing the capital's main street, O'Connell Street. It became the fourth Portal in a global network of identical Portal sculptures. Being all located in the public space, Portals offer a real-time, unfiltered livestream 24/7, inviting people of different cultures to meet above borders and differences.
A groundbreaking public art installation known as ‘The Portal’ formed a visual and symbolic bridge between the vibrant metropolises of New York City and Dublin, with its grand launch taking place in May. This visionary project seamlessly integrated into Dublin's fabric as the European City of Smart Tourism in 2024, enhancing the city's cultural landscape.
Conceived by the visionary Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys, ‘The Portal’ transcended physical boundaries, offering a unique opportunity for global connection. The livestream feature of the Portals facilitated meaningful interactions across oceans, encouraging unity and understanding amongst diverse cultures. In Dublin, the majestic Portal stood proudly facing the bustling O'Connell Street, its gaze capturing the historic GPO building and the iconic Spire, creating a captivating juxtaposition of old and new. The meticulous installation of ‘The Portal’ was expertly carried out by AVI/SPL, the renowned Irish Audio Visual Installers, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience for all who encountered it.
During the grand launch event in Dublin, the esteemed All Things TechIE Podcast featured a special episode with Justin Dawson, providing a captivating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of the portal's creation and the unfolding of this groundbreaking project. Across the Atlantic in New York City, the Portal found its home at the bustling Flatiron South Public Plaza, nestled amongst the vibrant energy of Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street.
The collaboration between the Flatiron NoMad Partnership, the New York City Department of Transportation’s Art Program, and the Simons Foundation brought this transatlantic connection to life, solidifying the bond between these two iconic cities. The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daithí de Róiste, expressed the profound significance of this interplay of art and technology, emphasizing Dublin's commitment to global connectivity and innovation as the European Capital of Smart Tourism 2024.
This visionary project symbolized the city's dedication to fostering relationships not only within the EU but also with cities like New York, with whom Dublin shares a deep historical and cultural bond. In a statement from James Mettham, the President of the Flatiron NoMad Partnership in New York, the excitement and honor of hosting the Portal's North American debut were palpable. The real-time connection between these two iconic public spaces resonated with New Yorkers and visitors alike, serving as a tangible link bridging geographical distances and cultural nuances. Ya-Ting Liu, the New York City Chief Public Realm Officer, reflected on the unparalleled opportunity presented by The Portal, a unique installation uniting global cities in real-time and space. The vibrant streets of both Dublin and New York served as the backdrop for this innovative project, fostering human connections and interactions that transcended traditional boundaries. Benediktas Gylys, the visionary behind the Portals, shared his profound vision of a united planet, expressing gratitude to Dublin and New York for embracing this transformative project.
From its origins in Vilnius, Lithuania, and Lublin, Poland, the Portals had evolved into a global network, symbolizing the beginning of a new era of interconnectedness across diverse communities and landscapes. The transatlantic connection forged by ‘The Portal’ between New York City and Dublin was a testament to the power of art, technology, and collaboration. From its spring launch through the autumn of the same year, the Portal served as a beacon of hope and connection, bridging continents and cultures through its real-time link and engaging programming that celebrated the creative spirit of both cities. The success of ‘The Portal’ was made possible by the unwavering dedication and support of Dublin City Council, the EU Capital of Smart Tourism, AVI/SPL, the Flatiron NoMad Partnership, the Simons Foundation, DOT Art, and the portals.org team. Their collective efforts transformed a visionary idea into a tangible reality, enriching the cultural landscape of both Dublin and New York and leaving a lasting impact on the communities they serve.