Ipswich to Become Home to the UK’s First ‘Portal’ Public Art Installation
Ipswich is making headlines as the UK’s very first host of a ‘Portal’ — an innovative public art installation designed to connect our town centre visually and interactively with cities around the world. Installation work has already begun at the iconic Cornhill, the bustling square in Ipswich’s heart, setting the stage for this extraordinary global cultural experience.
The Portal is a circular sculpture fitted with a live-streaming screen, enabling passers-by to see and interact with people in other Portal locations worldwide. Participating cities include Dublin, Philadelphia, and Vilnius, making this not just a local attraction but a bridge fostering international connections. This unique art and technology collaboration is part of the Digital Ipswich initiative by Ipswich Borough Council, funded through the government’s Towns Fund.
Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys is the visionary behind the Portal, which aims to nurture cultural exchange and global unity. Ipswich Borough Council Leader Councillor Neil MacDonald emphasises the project’s significance: “The Portal project was chosen to boost visitor numbers, increase footfall and dwell time in the town centre, and place Ipswich alongside other forward-thinking cities around the world. It’s a powerful symbol of unity and innovation, allowing people to see and connect with others across the globe – right from the heart of our town. More cities are joining the movement, but Ipswich will always be the UK’s first!”
Once active, the Portal will cycle through live feeds from its international locations, creating an engaging and dynamic experience for both residents and visitors. We encourage everyone to visit the Cornhill once the installation is complete, take part in this remarkable global connectivity, and help champion Ipswich’s place on the international cultural map.
This exciting development highlights Ipswich’s commitment to nurturing a thriving town centre that embraces innovation, supports tourism, and enriches cultural ties globally. It complements the town’s existing vibrant arts scene, which you can explore through local hubs like the Ipswich Art Gallery and groups such as the Ipswich Arts Association.
For further details about the Portal project and participating cities, please visit portals.org.
Be sure to keep an eye on Ipswich.love for updates on this exciting installation and for more information about events and activities across Ipswich that strengthen our community and cultural life.
Photo credits: James Burgess, Urban Tech Creative/Ipswich Borough Council
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