The Fourth Portal in Gravesend has been a space for exploring the intersection of technology, community, and creativity. From hosting diverse events to showcasing innovative technologies, it became a place where curiosity and collaboration thrived. The following is the post for our social media during Christmas 2024 to followers across various platforms, sharing our reflections on this journey to date in Gravesend.
Fourth Portal, Gravesend
From receiving the keys in May 2023, the Fourth Portal was open for 14 months. Hosting more than 40 events and numerous happenings, we produced two newspapers and delivered an innovation showcase across Gravesend town centre. As well as our own virtual house and AI Arnold, we hosted Crawley Bots, The Laserium, WowCube, Robotic Dogs, retro computers and electronic sound-making kits of all descriptions. Well over 10,000 people visited, including the first UK buyer of Apple Computers (1984), an engineer of the Atari microprocessor, an iPhone historian, and legends who use these devices and inventions to make sound, songs, games and much more. A network of over 100 residents of Gravesham supporting the Fourth Portal developed and continues to expand and support. The Gravesend venue, St Andrew's Waterside Mission Church in Gravesend, is gorgeous and one of the most peaceful spaces in the country. The architectural quality, the windows and the construction are marvellous. It does, however, sit in the tidal Thames River, meaning it requires additional care and love to maintain and operate. As the roof leaks are repaired this winter, along with the town of Gravesend, we hope to see the entire building restored to its glorious self.
Thank you
Thanks to everyone who visited the Gravesend Fourth Portal, participated in events, provided insights into different technologies and objects to display, and supported the entire concept.
Changing World
The technological upheaval, already well underway, will change every aspect of how we learn, work, socialise and move around. The Fourth Portal provides a glimpse into this new world. It encourages people to take advantage of the opportunities these technologies present while laying bare the environmental impact we as a society have on our planet.
Thanks for all the support.
Wishing everyone a joyful, healthy and prosperous season and New Year 2025.
Posted to Fourth Portal Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn 22 December 2024
Facebook comments up to 24 December 2024
Karen Simpson
Happy Christmas John.
Margaret Fuller
A wonderful achievement!
Jacqui Morris
Happy Christmas John and thank you for providing a bit of sanity during our visits to Gravesend whilst my dad was in Gravesham Place. He sadly died in May of this year but we will never forget your hospitality, the fabulous Fourth Portal and the great coffee with a view! X
John Garner
Thanks for being with us in Gravesend John. You achieved a lot for our community with your unique events, the cross section of people you attracted and of course the GREAT COFFEE!!
Oh, and I very much enjoyed playing the piano whenever I called in. Do come back to us when the time is right.
Johnny G & Jules x
Chris Creed
Happy Christmas John and looking forward to seeing everyone again when St.Andrews is available in 2025. Best wishes to you and all the others who supported Fourth Portal. Chris Creed xx
Anne Loughlin
Will you be back?
Peter Coyte
Congratulations on your amazing achievement there and look forward to Fourth Portal’s 2025!
Instagram comments up 24 December 2024
isporcaspoetry
Lovely, John. A special place and special for me for sure 🙌👏
lfw_photography2021
Merry Christmas John from all of us. Xx
ajphotoinfo
Will you be returning next year?
paulthalliday
The Fourth Portal at Gravesend has been incredibly successful, and the level of engagement with local people and those visiting for events, outstanding.
Enjoy your well-earned break.
rocklandsartbeat
So glad to have experienced this magical mecca of moments. Thank you 💚🏴☠️
magical place -
John M
Comments