A Portal Connecting NYC To Dublin Is Coming To Flatiron This May
Immersed in the bustling rhythms of urban life, a revolutionary installation, known as The Portal, is poised to stitch the fabric of two pulsating cities—New York and Dublin. Set against the backdrop of Manhattan's Flatiron neighborhood, this sculpture will make its North American debut on Wednesday, May 8th. The Portal isn't just an exhibit; it's a groundbreaking conduit of live, visual communication across the vast Atlantic.
Picture this: you're strolling through the Flatiron Public Plazas, an area where the vibrant energies of Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and 23rd Street converge, right by the iconic Flatiron Building. Here, The Portal stands, a testament not only to artistic innovation but to the bridging of continental divides. It creates a real-time, visual stream that forges a connection with Dublin, melding the daily life and unique cultures of both locales into a shared experience.
Photo: portals.org
The brainchild of Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys, The Portal serves as an open invitation—an opportunity to encounter distant souls, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity. Through its livestream, this installation offers a peek into distant worlds, broadening horizons and enriching local interactions beyond the familiar urban canvas.
James Mettham, President of the Flatiron NoMad Partnership, captures the sentiment: "Hosting The Portal’s North American debut in one of New York City’s most dynamic intersections is a privilege. This real-time visual link between two iconic public spaces not only connects them but also magnetizes people, both physically and digitally. It's poised to become a focal point, captivating both residents and visitors."
Photo: portals.org
Across the sea, the Dublin installation faces O’Connell Street, embracing the city's main artery. Here, viewers can gaze upon the historic General Post Office and the soaring Spire, iconic symbols of Dublin's skyline.
From its unveiling in early May until fall 2024, The Portal promises a continuous dialogue between these urban landscapes. Ya-Ting Liu, NYC Chief Public Realm Officer, enthuses about the installation: "To witness two globally celebrated cities linked in real time is extraordinary. The Portal is more than an art installation; it’s a vibrant portal to urban life, enhancing our city streets with the dynamism of international connection."
Photo: portals.org
Anticipate not only a visual exchange but a cultural one as well; from mid-May, The Portal will host an array of cultural performances. These events, streamed live, allow Dubliners and New Yorkers to share in each city’s cultural offerings as if they were standing side by side.
To explore more about the team behind The Portal or to dive deeper into their creative endeavors, visit their website or follow them on Instagram. This installation isn't just about viewing art; it's about experiencing and connecting with a world beyond one's reach.
