A unique global art installation, Portals, is making its way to Philadelphia, offering residents a live video connection with another international city. Work began Friday at LOVE Park, where the large, distinctive disk associated with the project was spotted being set up by workers.

The Portals installation, designed by Lithuanian artist Benediktas Gylys, is known for linking different locations across the globe through real-time livestreams. Although the exact city that Philadelphia will be connected to has not yet been disclosed, the installation promises to offer Philadelphians the opportunity to wave, interact, and communicate with people from another country in real-time.

The Portals project first gained international attention in 2021 when it linked Vilnius, Lithuania, with Lublin, Poland. More recently, the installation connected New York City with Dublin, Ireland, offering an immersive experience that delighted onlookers, until the temporary shutdown last month due to inappropriate behavior on the livestream.

While there is anticipation about the cultural exchange this art piece will bring to Philadelphia, some residents have expressed concerns about how the city will engage with the installation. A social media user posted, "I’m sorry is Philly getting an international video portal? This cannot end well," alluding to past issues.

In response to such concerns, the Portals team has implemented safeguards, including a video-blurring feature for individuals who get too close to the cameras. These measures are designed to prevent inappropriate behavior from disrupting the artistic and cultural experience.

Philadelphia city officials and representatives from Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, which oversees LOVE Park, have not yet provided additional information or comments about the installation. However, excitement is building as residents prepare for the arrival of this innovative art piece.

As the installation takes shape, locals can look forward to experiencing this blend of technology and artistry firsthand, interacting with people from across the globe in a way that merges public art with digital communication.