The term “portal” typically evokes images from fantasy or science-fiction literature. However, despite the absence of naturally-occurring portals in our world, technology has enabled us to bring to life things that were once only found in the realm of fiction.
A public installation called “Portal” is set to debut this spring at the Flatiron South Public Plaza, located at the intersection of Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street. This installation will enable live video streaming from Dublin, Ireland to New York City, while another portal in Dublin will live stream footage from New York City to connect viewers in both locations.
A real-life portal will be built in New York City and Dublin in the spring, and will live stream video between both locations.
The first pair of portals were installed in Vilnius, Lithuania, and Lublin, Poland, in 2021.
The mastermind behind the portals is Benediktas Gylys, an artist and entrepreneur from Lithuania. He is passionate about creating projects that foster human connections and highlight our similarities, especially during a time when we are increasingly divided. The Portal website describes the installation as an invitation to meet fellow humans beyond borders and prejudices and to experience our shared planet Earth as a unified entity.
James Mettham, President of the Flatiron NoMad Partnership, stated: We are honored to host the Portal’s North American debut on the Flatiron Public Plazas, at one of New York City’s most dynamic intersections. This real-time connection between two iconic public spaces in global cities on either side of the Atlantic will bring people together, both physically and digitally, becoming a captivating attraction for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
The Portal connecting NYC to Dublin will be installed on the Flatiron South Public Plaza at Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street, next to the Flatiron Building.
In Dublin, the sculpture will be installed facing the capital’s main street, O’Connell Street, capturing both the iconic vista of both Dublin’s famous GPO building and the Spire together.
It will be on display from spring 2024 through fall 2024.
