The NYC-Dublin livestream “portal” reopened with new measures to deter offensive behavior, such as limited hours of operation from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the addition of guardrails around the portal. Prior to the reopening, visitors from both sides had engaged in disturbing acts, including showing images of 9/11 attacks and flashing their breasts on camera. Screens will now be blurred if a visitor obstructs the camera, and security measures such as fencing and signage have been implemented.
Organizers emphasized that the portal aims to promote joy and connection between New York and Dublin, as the overwhelming majority of visitors have had positive experiences. Both sides of the portal have physical design features to manage the crowd and ensure a safe environment for all visitors. The team will continue to make updates as necessary to ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy the portal and have a positive experience.
The portal, which allows people to see but not hear each other on both sides of the Atlantic, was temporarily closed following widespread inappropriate behavior. The 8-foot by 8-foot video screen is located at Flatiron South Plaza in New York City. Officials from Dublin and Flatiron NoMad Partnership expressed a commitment to creating a positive experience for visitors and emphasized the importance of community members caring for and respecting the portal and each other while interacting with the sculptures.
The joint statement from Portals.com, Flatiron NoMad Partnership, and Dublin City Council highlighted the collaborative nature of the Portals experience and the importance of local communities coming together to foster a sense of joy and connectedness. The artist and founder of Portals.org, Benediktas Gylys, encouraged communities to engage with and care for the sculptures to ensure a positive and respectful environment for all visitors. The temporary closure and reopening of the portal with additional security measures demonstrate the commitment of organizers to creating a safe and welcoming space where visitors can connect with each other across the ocean.
