ABOUT THE PORTAL

ABOUT THE PORTAL

The Portal is a groundbreaking public art installation that has created a virtual bridge between Dublin and New York City. It consists of two identical structures, each equipped with a large screen and camera, allowing for a real-time, unfilteredlivestream between the two cities.

The Portal has been met with enthusiasm and has attracted large crowds eager to interact with people on the other side of the Atlantic. However, its popularity has also led to some unfortunate incidents of anti-social behaviour.

On both sides of the Portal, there have been reports of individuals engaging in inappropriate behaviour, such as public nudity, drug use, and harassment of people on the other side of the screen. These incidents have raised concerns about the lack of moderation and the potential for the Portal to be misused.

In response to these issues, the Portal was temporarily shut down in both cities. Organisers have since reopened it with new measures in place to address the problems. These measures include increased security, stricter guidelines for appropriate behaviour, and a dedicated team to monitor the livestream.

The Portal's creators and city officials remain optimistic about the project's potential to foster cross-cultural understanding and connection. However, the incidents of anti-social behaviour highlight the challenges of maintaining a safe and respectful environment in a public forum that operates across international borders.

It is important to note that the vast majority of people who have interacted with the Portal have done so in a positive and respectful manner. The organisers are committed to ensuring that the Portal remains a space for meaningful interaction and cultural exchange, while also addressing the concerns that have been raised.

It remains to be seen how effective the new measures will be in curbing anti-social behaviour. However, the Portal's creators and supporters are hopeful that the project can overcome these challenges and continue to serve as a unique and valuable tool for connecting people across continents.