The presence of “Industrial Homage” by Ned Jackson Smyth at the Portview Trade Centre in Belfast is a compelling intersection of art, history, and urban regeneration. This Corten steel sculpture, installed in March 2019, serves as a significant visual and symbolic anchor for the site, particularly for the Creative Exchange Artists’ Studios housed within.

The Genesis of “Industrial Homage”

Ned Jackson Smyth, a contemporary artist, has created a piece that directly references the profound industrial legacy of its location. The choice of Corten steel is deliberate and highly appropriate. This material, also known as weathering steel, develops a stable, rust-like appearance over time. This natural patina not only provides a unique aesthetic but also speaks to the passage of time, the elements, and the enduring nature of industrial structures. The process of weathering itself mirrors the transformation of the mill from a bustling industrial enterprise to a new hub for creativity and enterprise.

While specific artistic interpretations of “Industrial Homage” by Ned Jackson Smyth are best found from the artist’s own statements or exhibition materials, the title itself strongly suggests a reverence for the past. It’s a “homage” – a tribute – to the industry, the innovation, and the labour that defined the site for decades.

The Historical Context: From Flax to Future

To fully appreciate “Industrial Homage,” one must understand the rich history of the Portview Trade Centre.

The Strand Spinning Mill (Early 1900s – 1983): The building that now houses the Portview Trade Centre began its life in the early 1900s as the Jaffe Spinning Mill, built by Sir Otto Jaffe, a notable local businessman and philanthropist. It was quickly acquired by James Mackie & Sons and became the Strand Spinning Company. In its heyday, this mill was a colossal enterprise, renowned as the largest flax tow spinning mill in the world. It was a global centre of innovation, marrying traditional textile skills with cutting-edge technology. During World War II, with flax supplies disrupted, Mackies adapted the machinery to spin synthetic viscose fibres, pioneering new manufacturing processes in Northern Ireland in collaboration with Courtaulds. The mill was a vibrant and central part of the East Belfast community, employing thousands, predominantly women, and contributing significantly to the city’s industrial prowess. The northern end of the building suffered damage during the German Blitz bombing of Belfast in April 1941, leaving an 18-bay block never rebuilt.

Decline and Transformation (1980s onwards): The steady decline of the UK textile industry ultimately led to the closure of the Strand Spinning Mill at the end of 1983. However, the story of the site did not end there. In the 1980s, a group of forward-thinking individuals sought to reutilise the vast mill complex. It was reimagined and successfully transformed into the Portview Trade Centre, providing much-needed, usable workspaces for small businesses.

Portview Trade Centre Today: The Portview Trade Centre is now a dynamic multi-functional site, preserving its Grade B2 listed heritage while embracing the future. It has become a significant hub for diverse enterprises, including the Creative Exchange Artists’ Studios. This artistic community, established in 1996, has played a crucial role in contributing to the history, culture, and economy of the area. The studios provide a sustainable and inspiring environment for artists working in various mediums, fostering professional development and community engagement. Beyond the artists’ studios, Portview also houses other innovative businesses, such as Boundary Brewing and the “Banana Block” living museum and event space, further showcasing its reinvention as a vibrant centre of innovation and community.

The Sculpture’s Significance

“Industrial Homage” by Ned Jackson Smyth, standing at the Portview Trade Centre, is more than just a piece of art; it’s a powerful symbol:

A Bridge to the Past: The sculpture physically embodies the site’s rich industrial heritage, allowing visitors and tenants to connect with the immense scale and impact of the former Strand Spinning Mill. The Corten steel, with its rustic aesthetic, directly evokes the machinery and infrastructure of the industrial age.
A Symbol of Resilience and Adaptation: Just as the mill adapted from flax to viscose and then to a diverse trade centre, the sculpture’s material symbolises endurance and transformation. It acknowledges the challenges and closures of the past while celebrating the site’s successful regeneration.
An Artistic Statement in a Creative Hub: Its presence at the Portview Trade Centre, home to the Creative Exchange Artists’ Studios, underscores the building’s role as a contemporary artistic and creative space. It’s a reminder that art can find inspiration in history and that former industrial giants can become fertile ground for new forms of innovation.
Community Engagement: The sculpture, along with initiatives like the “Spinning Memories” archive at Portview, actively encourages the community to engage with their shared history and contribute to the ongoing narrative of East Belfast.

In essence, “Industrial Homage” by Ned Jackson Smyth is a beautifully apt tribute that bridges Belfast’s powerful industrial past with its vibrant, creative present, serving as a silent, weathered guardian of a truly remarkable site.

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The Lagan, Stranmillis, and the River Walk: A Blend of Progress and Persisting Problems
My recent visit to Belfast on 27th May 2025 offered a fresh perspective on the ongoing development along the River Lagan. While significant progress has been made in enhancing the city’s riverside, particularly around Stranmillis, the persistent issue of graffiti continues to detract from these valuable public spaces.

The Lagan Gateway scheme has been instrumental in transforming the riverfront. During my previous visit in 2022, I was just a few days shy of witnessing the opening of Belfast’s first new navigation lock in over 250 years. This lock, situated beneath the Stranmillis Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge (which opened in September 2021), is a testament to the city’s commitment to revitalising its waterways. The broader scheme also included crucial refurbishments to the existing weir, along with thoughtful landscaping and the creation of new path connections, all designed to improve accessibility and enjoyment of the river.

I highly recommend exploring the Lagan Towpath to anyone visiting Belfast. A walk as far as the new Stranmillis Pedestrian Bridge provides an excellent vantage point to appreciate the scale of these developments. However, it’s impossible to ignore the pervasive problem of poor-quality graffiti that unfortunately blights much of the river walk. Despite the considerable time and effort invested in developing these pathways, the sheer volume of meritless tagging is disheartening. I was particularly struck by one instance of graffiti on what appeared to be an almost impossibly high and inaccessible section of the bridge structure, raising questions about how such vandalism occurs.

The contrast between the impressive infrastructure improvements and the widespread graffiti highlights an ongoing challenge for urban development. While the Lagan Gateway scheme has undeniably enhanced the aesthetic and recreational value of the river, the issue of vandalism demands further attention to ensure these valuable public amenities can be fully appreciated by all.

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