Ipswich to make history with UK’s first ‘Portal’ public art installation

Ipswich is set to become the first place in the UK to host a ‘Portal’ – a striking public art installation that will visually connect its town centre to cities across the world in real time.

Located on the Cornhill, the Portal will be a circular sculpture featuring a live-streaming screen that will allow passers-by to see and interact with people in other Portal locations, including Dublin, Philadelphia, and Vilnius.

The installation is part of the Digital Ipswich programme, delivered by Ipswich Borough Council through the government-funded Towns Fund investment. Created by Lithuanian artist and entrepreneur Benediktas Gylys, the Portal is designed to foster global connection and cultural exchange through technology and art.

Councillor Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said:

“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!”

The Portal will rotate live feeds from other global locations, offering a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. The Digital Ipswich team encourages everyone to visit the Cornhill once the installation is complete, take part in this global connection, and help put Ipswich firmly on the international map.

This initiative reflects the Council’s commitment to a thriving town centre, innovation in tourism and its ambition to build stronger cultural and historical ties with cities worldwide.

For more information about the Portal project and other locations, visit www.portals.org

Picture credits: James Burgess, Urban Tech Creative/Ipswich Borough Council