Search Results

The Innovation Showcase turned Gravesend into a hub of creativity, technology, and knowledge-sharing, with academics, artists, and entrepreneurs leading interactive discussions, performances, and demonstrations. In various shops, churches, and unexpected locations, the day explored AI, machine learning, retro computing, sonic experiments, lasers, robotics, and digital futures, bringing new ideas to the heart of the this North Kent town. Innovation Showcase 2024 < Back 20 November 2024 The Innovation Showcase turned Gravesend into a hub of creativity, technology, and knowledge-sharing, with academics, artists, and entrepreneurs leading interactive discussions, performances, and demonstrations. In various shops, churches, and unexpected locations, the day explored AI, machine learning, retro computing, sonic experiments, lasers, robotics, and digital futures, bringing new ideas to the heart of the this North Kent town. Previous Next This page is being updated March 2025 Innovation Showcase | Gravesend Takeover On Wednesday, 20th November 2024, the Innovation Showcase transformed Gravesend town centre into a hub of innovation, technology, creativity and knowledge exchange. From emerging AI breakthroughs to sonic soundscapes with lasers, the event invited academics, artists, entrepreneurs, and the public to explore how the future is being shaped today. Despite an overnight Arctic blast that left temperatures below freezing in the morning, the sun broke through, and by midday, the town was alive with discussions, performances, and hands-on demonstrations. The BBC arrived in a radio car to broadcast live interviews on Breakfast shows, which brought national coverage. With a packed schedule of free events, hosted in shops, churches, and unexpected locations, the Innovation Showcase offered an unparalleled opportunity to engage with leading experts from major universities, innovative businesses, and pioneering creative industries. 🔹 29 Events | 50 Volunteers | BBC Coverage | Participants from across the UK 💡 From hands-on AI workshops and robotics demonstrations to immersive sound experiences and discussions on digital futures, the Innovation Showcase was a day of discovery, collaboration, and inspiration. Extensive Media Coverage The Innovation Showcase 2024 attracted widespread media attention, bringing Gravesend into the national spotlight. Coverage spanned across multiple platforms, with extensive features across the BBC, including live radio interviews, online articles, and discussions on emerging technology, creativity, and the impact of the new emerging economy is having on local communities. The BBC’s coverage kicked off with a live morning radio interview with Fourth Portal founder, John McKiernan, discussing the vision behind the Innovation Showcase and the opportunities it presented for Gravesend and beyond. Throughout the day, the event was featured in BBC articles and local news bulletins, highlighting the cutting-edge demonstrations, expert-led discussions, and the town’s engagement with technological innovation. Beyond the BBC, the press release was widely circulated, generating significant interest across digital and print media, reaching hundreds of thousands of people who may not have previously been familiar with Gravesend. Social media engagement surged as attendees, speakers, and media outlets shared real-time updates, photos, and reflections, further expanding the event’s reach. The level of media exposure not only shone a light on the event itself but also reinforced Gravesend’s potential as a hub for knowledge exchange, entrepreneurship, and cultural innovation. Event Locations The Innovation Showcase took place all across the North Kent town of Gravesend town centre, bringing cutting-edge ideas into everyday spaces and turning the town into a dynamic space for learning, experimentation, and discussion. 📍 Fixed Locations St. George's Church Hall and Community Centre St. George's Church The Mug and Meeple Julius Caesar Italian Restaurant Gravesend Model Centre Allsorts Antiques The Kent Cocktail Bar & Lounge Pender Pharmacy Gravesend Library Munns of Gravesend RC Bathrooms Compass Alehouse House of Leyla The Grand Reliance Fish Restaurant - Gravesend Gino’s Neapolitan Hatch Market St. George's Arts Centre Some of the Gravesend businesses host Innovation Showcase The venues played an important role, hosting talks, workshops, performances, and hands-on demonstrations that invited the public to engage with innovation in familiar settings and for residents to see their town in a new light. Starting and Maintaining a Business in Gravesend 📍 Gravesend Library | 10:00 The Fourth Portal Innovation Showcase began with an essential discussion on the realities of running a business in Gravesend. Local business owners from Compass Ale House, Allsorts Antiques, Pender Pharmacy, and others came together to share insights into the challenges and opportunities of operating in a changing economic landscape. Chaired by Alessandro Ferrazza (University of Sunderland in London), the session explored the current state of town centre businesses, the impact of technological disruptions, and the strategies needed to adapt and thrive in the evolving economy. With participation from both established entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners, the discussion set the tone for the day—highlighting the importance of community collaboration, resilience, and innovation in shaping the future of Gravesend’s economy. Event Highlights & Summaries Performance 🎭 The Laserium | St George's Church Hall | 19:00 The 800-laser immersive The Laserium returned to Gravesend following the sold-out gigs at the Fourth Portal earlier in the year . Set to the pulsating music of Funki Porcini, transforming sound into light in a spectacular display. Reviews below. 🎭 The Bell Agency | House of Leyla | 15:00 & 17:00 A slow-motion sound world of unfolding sound and performance, bringing together a gradual audience realisation, led by drummer Charles Hayward. 🎭 Drum Machine | The Grand | 18:00 Renowned drummer Charles Hayward explored how drum machines differ from human drumming through an historic lens, inviting the audience to join in short drumming sessions. 🎭 Doraraathara | The Grand | 18:00 An immersive spoken word performance blending generative art, projection, sound and AI technology, followed by a Q&A with creators Jennifer Bell and Kristian Jones from Nottingham Trent University. 🎭 Large Language | The Grand | 16:00 Gravesend’s spoken word community engaged the public in a discussion on the interplay between poetry and AI, encouraging participation in remixing into a whole new work by a live A.I., led by Zack Davies and Anthony Hart. 🎭 Art of VFX 1896-2024 | The Grand | 16:15 An exploration of the tools and techniques used in visual effects over a century of cinema, led by VFX Supervisor, Val Wardlaw. Demonstrations & Interactive Installations 🤖 Meet Mechanismo - Engaging and Playful Robots | Multiple locations | 11:00 The Mechanismo team showcased their expressive, four-wheel-drive Crawly Bots equipped with advanced sensing technology, presented by Andy Payne and Nicky Cure. Listen to Andy speaking to the BBC about the Crawly Bots. 🖼 Green Yonder - Sustainable Design Futures | St George's Church Hall | 10:00 Attendees interacted with playful and accessible devices designed to raise awareness of sustainability challenges, including those posed by AI and the Internet of Things, led by Michael Stead and Violet Owen from the University of Lancaster | Listen to Michael and Violet speaking to the BBC. 🎹 Mini Jam with Tiny Synths | Various pop-up locations | 11:00 Producer and electronic artist Felix X Tigersonic guided participants through interactive workshops exploring the world of tiny synthesisers. 📸 Polaroid Workshop | Fourth Portal | Saturday, 16 November 2024 | 11:00 Participants used Instax ‘Polaroid’ cameras to experiment with photographing urban environments, led by photographer, Paul Halliday, formally of Goldsmiths, University of London. 🎨 Polaroid Exhibition | Gravesend Library | 11:00 An exhibition displaying photos from the Innovation Showcase Polaroid Workshop, displaying images captured in urban spaces around Gravesend, led by photographer, Paul Halliday, formally of Goldsmiths, University of London. 🕹 Innovation in Gaming | St George's Church | 11:30 Visitors explored vintage gaming consoles, 3D modelling, and AI innovations in game design, hosted by Mark Gladwell, with Sam, Daniel and James O'Malley. 🕹 Game Changing AI Future | St George's Church | 16:00 Journalist James O’Malley examined how gaming has shaped modern AI technology. Discussions & Talks 💬 Your Opinion on AI | Julius Caesar Italian Restaurant | 11:00 An interactive discussion on AI, gathering public perspectives on inclusion, ethics, and its future direction, led by Dr Glenn McGarry from the University of Nottingham. 💡 New School Futures | Gravesend Library | 12:00 Presentation introducing the New School Futures project, envisioning a community-driven, affordable education model. By Professor Emeritus John Wood, Goldsmiths, University of London, 💼 Starting and Maintaining a Business in Gravesend | Gravesend Library | 10:00 A panel discussion exploring the challenges and opportunities of running a business in Gravesend, featuring insights from local business owners, including Compass Ale House, Allsorts Antiques, and Penders Pharmacy. Chaired by Alessandro Ferrazza (University of Sunderland in London), the session examined how small businesses can adapt to technological disruptions and navigate the evolving economic landscape. 🛠 How to do VFX | The Grand | 19:00 A beginner-friendly talk introducing the tools and techniques of visual effects (VFX) by VFX Supervisor, Val Wardlaw. 🗿 AI, Archaeology, Avatars and Pocahontas | St George's Church | 13:15 A discussion on who writes history, exploring how AI and avatars shape narratives of historical figures. PhD candidate and Barrister, Favour Borokini, University of Nottingham and MPhil and PhD candidate Mercedes Baptiste-Halliday, University of Oxford. ⚖️ AI Responsibility | St George's Church | 14:00 Professor David Townend led a discussion on AI’s challenges and opportunities for the legal profession. Professor David Townend, Professor of Health and Life Sciences Law and is Associate Dean for Research and Innovation in the City Law School, along with Professor and Barrister, Mark Engelman. ⚖️ AI Responsibility Panel Discussion | St George's Church | 14:30 Professor David Townend led a panel discussion with questions on AI’s challenges and opportunities for the legal profession. Professor David Townend, Professor of Health and Life Sciences Law and is Associate Dean for Research and Innovation in the City Law School, along with Professor and Barrister, Mark Engelman, Phd candidate and Barrister, Favour Borokini, University of Nottingham and MPhil and PhD candidate Mercedes Baptiste-Halliday, University of Oxford. 🌍 Reclaiming Wisdom | Gravesend Library | 13:00 Professor John Wood advocated for a holistic shift in education, addressing biodiversity loss and the climate crisis. Led by Professor Emeritus John Wood, Goldsmiths, University of London 🔎 Wicked Avatar Problems | St George's Church | 12:30 An exploration of multiculturality in visual representation and the ethical dilemmas of AI-generated imagery. Presentation by PhD candidate and Barrister, Favour Borokini, University of Nottingham ⚙️ Fair AI Futures? | Julius Caesar Italian Restaurant | 10:30 An interactive discussion with academics from the University of Nottingham, examining what a fair AI future could look like. Led by Dr Alan Chamberlain, listen to Alan speaking to the BBC. 🏭 Traditional Apprenticeships in the Digital Age | Gravesend Library | 14:00A look at how traditional industries are adapting to modern apprenticeships and digital transformation. Discussion between former Head of Papermaking, Empire Paper Mills, Greenhithe, Anthony Thorley and Founder of Artisan Print Services, Northfleet, Deke Demarko. Hands-On Activities & Local Business Engagement 🍺 Debugging Craft Beer Myths | The Compass Alehouse | 12:00, 14:00 & 15:00 A lively beer tasting session uncovering the history, innovation, and myths of the craft beer industry. Hosted by Compass Co-Founder John. 💊 NHS Pharmacy First Service | Pender Pharmacy | 12:30 Pharmacist Steven Kane explained the expansion of healthcare access through NHS Pharmacy First. Hosted by Pender Pharmacy Owner, Steven Kane 🎨 Shaping Processes | Munns of Gravesend | 13:30 Artists Naomi Boyle and Dawn Cole explored how innovation is reshaping traditional artistic practices. 🛠 Laser Cutting | Mug and Meeple | 11:00 An introduction to laser cutting with Glenn and the Mug and Meeple team, demonstrating design and fabrication techniques. Led by Glenn 📖 Museum of Portable Sound | Multiple Locations | 11:15 & 16:00An interactive digital museum housed on an iPhone, exploring the acoustic environments of cities worldwide. 🎓 Enhancing Student Engagement | Gravesend Library | 10:00 An exploration of educational technology’s role in remote learning following the Covid-19 pandemic. Presentation by PhD Candidate, Alessandro Ferrazza, University of Sunderland in London. Innovation in Gaming installation | Photos: Jonathan Pigram Nodevember Throughout November 2024 Despite the severe cold weather and persistent rain in November, the Nodevember initiative at the Fourth Portal provided an opportunity to explore the complexities of coding and its value in different contexts. Nodevember is a yearly challenge held throughout November, encouraging participants to improve and showcase their procedural coding skills. Each year, a list of prompts is released to inspire creativity and technical development. At the Fourth Portal, we ran Nodevember sessions across alternative nights throughout November 2024, creating a space for discussion and experimentation. Discussions during the event examined whether coding should be widely taught and the vast differences between various forms of coding. For example, hard coding in engineering requires deep technical knowledge and precision, whereas coding for a website in HTML is a more structured, accessible skill suited to different needs. The debate highlighted that coding is not a single discipline but a broad spectrum of skills applied in diverse ways. While the challenging weather and the cold, damp venue limited participation, the experience offered important lessons for future events, particularly in creating a more conducive environment for engagement. Gravesend’s Independent Food Vendors Gravesend's independent food vendors, brought into the Innovation Showcase through the dedicated efforts of local volunteer James Howard, added a vibrant culinary dimension to the event. Developing his career in marketing and communications, James engaged vendors across the town, ensuring food was a vital part of the programme and creating an inclusive atmosphere. With food vouchers provided by the event, speakers, visitors, and volunteers could sample diverse cuisines, fostering a sense of community and encouraging participants to explore and learn more about Gravesend, its diversity, and its friendliness. Participating vendors included Gino’s Neapolitan, Julius Caesars, Gravesend Burger Kiosk, The Grizzly, Laszlo Hungarian Kitchen, Macho Nachos, Mrs Earlyns, Reliance Fish Bar, Sie’s Pies, Tay Mart, Tropical Cafe, and Vegan Antics, each offering a unique taste of the town’s rich and varied food culture. IMPACT, REFLECTION AND DATA A Day of Discovery & Exchange. Despite the freezing morning, the Innovation Showcase 2024 exceeded expectations, with a gradual increase in attendance throughout the day. The event brought together forward-thinking businesses, researchers, and local creatives, sparking conversations on technology, culture, and education. Funded by Gravesham Borough Council allocation of UKSPF funding from the UK Government, the Innovation Showcase offered an alternative way of introducing the fast moving new economy to local communities. Participant Reflection Danny and Sam, participants in the Innovation in Gaming installation, share their reflections on their experience at the Fourth Portal Innovation Showcase 2024. Initially hesitant to volunteer, they quickly found themselves immersed in the day’s events, and as this 2-minute video captures how multi-site intervention like these unfold. 🔗 Watch the video & read more: https://youtu.be/ycqZDkYTngY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycqZDkYTngY Sharing Innovation Showcase Data And Information Using the data collected during the November 2024 Innovation Showcase, the Fourth Portal is developing a beta version of a Linked Data Application designed to integrate all aspects of future Innovation Showcases and other events. This Fourth Portal app consolidates information on sessions, locations, and speakers, using open-source software that will offer users and event participants a comprehensive and interactive guide to everything happening at the event. Developing A Fourth Portal Linked Data App The development of this linked data tool is built on established open-source frameworks that enable structured and interconnected data sharing across the web. Unlike traditional databases, linked data follows principles set by Tim Berners-Lee’s Semantic Web, ensuring that information is not only accessible but also machine-readable and contextually meaningful. By leveraging RDF (Resource Description Framework), SPARQL (a query language for linked data), and ontologies, the app enables event organisers and participants to discover and navigate content dynamically. Beyond its immediate utility for the showcase, the app will be used as a foundational tool for future events and as an educational resource, helping individuals explore the engineering behind structured data, interoperability, and the power of decentralised information systems. Through this initiative, the Fourth Portal is demonstrating the potential of linked data as a critical technology for knowledge-sharing and digital innovation. Read more here: https://www.fourthportal.com/post/developing-linked-data-app Visit Event Page MORE ON THIS EVENT BELOW Previous Next Event Documentation Previous Next

All Improv Perfomers All Improv Gigs Sophie Sleigh-Johnson Spoken Word, Electronics & Tapes Performer Bio (Max 1000 characters) London and South East improv gigs ImproVox #06 5 February 2025 Performer notes, message or style description http://Website or social media email or phone number

All Improv Perfomers All Improv Gigs Stefano Sama Performer Bio (Max 1000 characters) London and South East improv gigs SKRONK #1 31 May 2016 Performer notes, message or style description http://Website or social media email or phone number

Building upon the incredibly previous busy and exciting Open House, Hypermedia returned for a third time to the Fourth Portal for an emerging evening of DIY poetry, spoken word, music, open mic and discussion. Hypermedia DIY Open Space 3 < Back 11 October 2023 Building upon the incredibly previous busy and exciting Open House, Hypermedia returned for a third time to the Fourth Portal for an emerging evening of DIY poetry, spoken word, music, open mic and discussion. Previous Next About the event Gravesend's very own Hypermedia presented an emerging evening of DIY poetry, spoken word, music, open mic and discussion at the Fourth Portal. Instigated by local Gravesend artists Hypermedia, this is an open emerging format pushing the boundaries of open mic. Welcoming to all ages and stages of the creative journey, the evening offers a relaxed space to perform or listen in an informal atmosphere. Licenced bar. Event is free, although donations of a suggested £3 for the featured performers were welcome. For more, contact Harriet and Joe from Hypermedia. Harriet: https://www.instagram.com/h.rriet/ Joe: https://www.instagram.com/_existencil This is an ongoing event series Visit Event Page MORE ON THIS EVENT BELOW Previous Next Event Documentation Previous Next

Funki Porcini discussed the design and engineering behind his 800-laser Laserium rig in advance of the full one-hour immersive shows, joined by Andy Payne, who assisted with its engineering, and Nicky Cure from Mechanismo. Together, they explored the intersections of lasers, robotics, and design, including the creation of the Crawley Bots. Lasers and Robots Talk < Back 28 January 2024 Funki Porcini discussed the design and engineering behind his 800-laser Laserium rig in advance of the full one-hour immersive shows, joined by Andy Payne, who assisted with its engineering, and Nicky Cure from Mechanismo. Together, they explored the intersections of lasers, robotics, and design, including the creation of the Crawley Bots. Previous Next The Fourth Portal hosted a post-Gravesham Light Festival talk featuring the creators of the Laserium laser rig and the Crawly Bots. Prior to his immersive evening performances, Ninja Tune legend Funki Porcini (James Braddell) discussed the development of his 800-laser rig, alongside engineer Andy Payne and artist Nicky Cure, the minds behind the Crawly Bots. These robots, bridging the gap between remote-controlled cars and fully autonomous machines, roamed both the Fourth Portal and the LV21 Lightship throughout the weekend, engaging visitors of all ages. The discussion delved into design processes and audience perceptions of both the Laserium and the Crawly Bots. At the conclusion of the page, a video elucidates the differences between viewable lasers, as showcased in the Laserium, and those capable of cutting materials. Inspirational and Innovative While walking the Thames Path, Elvin, Head of Data Analytics for a FinTech company, and his companion encountered the Crawly Bots. After interacting with them briefly, Elvin encapsulated the essence of the talk and the Fourth Portal in a 50-second video, highlighting the connections between play, robotics, learning, and knowledge exchange. https://video.wixstatic.com/video/2fcede_c33a97f88c6048e7b6f0dd07602057fc/1080p/mp4/file.mp4 3D Printed Light Reader Software Engineer Graham Klyne introduced the developing Monotype Compositions Tape Reader at the event. Led by artist Dawn Cole, Monotype Compositions is an ongoing collaboration with Graham and the Fourth Portal to develop an audio reader for a punched spool from a Monotype printing machine. This spool was used in printing the diary of Dawn's Great Aunt, Clarice Spratling, a WWI VAD nurse. The discussion highlighted the distinctions between light readers and lasers. The Lasers and Robots talk was free to attend. About Mechanismo Mechanismo is a creative technology initiative based in Warwick, UK, specialising in playful, creative technology and joyful robotics. Their projects include various robotic creations, such as the Crawly Bots, which exemplify their commitment to engaging and innovative design. Lasers and Robots were free to attend. This event has ended. Visit Event Page MORE ON THIS EVENT BELOW Previous Next Event Documentation Previous Next

This is a dummy page showing how an Burning Harpsichord Salon gig page may appear once the Culture Reverb memory system is live. It is for demonstration purposes only and not yet connected to the full network. FlimFlam FlimFlam – Culture Reverb Demonstration Page This page is a demonstration of how Culture Reverb may look once live. The FlimFlam webpage automatically generates a gig page containing a full interactive list of performers. These pages will connect to individual artist pages, instruments, collaborations, and venues, allowing scenes to emerge from the data. Once fully live, everything on the page will be connected across the open web. FlimFlam is brought founded and curated by Alan Wilkinson. For more information on Culture Reverb, contact John at info@fourthportal.com FlimFlam 29 October 2025 181 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0UL Francis Conyn John Macedo Colin Somervell Colin Webster Barry Edwards Neil Metcalfe Alan Wilkinson Matthew Grigg Andrea Bazzicalupo Flimflam 24 September 2025 181 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0UL Viv Corringham, Sue Lynch, Paul Taylor, Korhan Futaci, Alan Wilkinson, Dominic Lash, Aidan Searle Flimflam 30 July 2025 181 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0UL Steve Beresford Stale Liavik Solberg Roy Dodds Alan Wilkinson Mark Hewins John Edwards Flimflam 25 June 2025 181 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0UL Daniel Thompson, Tom Jackson, Colin Webster, Caius Williams, Andrew Lisle, Alex Bonney, Alan Wilkinson Flimflam 28 May 2025 181 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0UL Kay Grant, Charlotte Keeffe, Richard Hughes, Aidan Searle, Alan Wilkinson, Ian MacLachlan, Marcio Mattos, Steve Noble

Ten years of research and development has been spent developing these original portal spaces focused on technology, environment and sound that offer opportunity for entrepreneurship that benefits whole communities while reducing the impact on the planet. Video Tours Short Tours Of Our Online Venues Welcome to the Fourth Portal, thank you for your interest. Below you will find short videos providing some of the key features of our online venues, these are being updated regularly so please check back for more updates. Get In Touch Fourth Portal Lounge For gatherings from 6 to 500 people This 5min video offers a quick tour of the Fourth Portal Pavilion Lounge, perfect for smaller gatherings, including collaborations, networking, workshops, presentations and team-building events. The lounge can hold up to 500 hundred guests simultaneously and in addition to all the features mentioned, can also auto translate into 9 languages and offers Closed Captions for those with hearing impairment. BOOK A TOUR Fourth Portal Pavilion Arena For gatherings from 150 to 2000 people This short video offers a tour of the main features of the Fourth Portal Pavilion Arena, a perfect venue for larger gatherings, conferences, major work events, showcasing, exhibitions, training, educational events and open days. The Pavilion Arena can accomodate up to 2,000 guests simultaneously and in addition to all the features mentioned, can also auto translate into 9 languages and offers Closed Captions for those with hearing impairment. BOOK A TOUR Discussion Festival Weekly online Free event This short video offers a tour of the main features of the Fourth Portal Pavilion Arena, a perfect venue for larger gatherings, conferences, major work events, showcasing, exhibitions, training, educational events and open days. The Pavilion Arena can accomodate up to 2,000 guests simultaneously and in addition to all the features mentioned, can also auto translate into 9 languages and offers Closed Captions for those with hearing impairment. BOOK A TOUR

< Back Datacenters in space are a terrible, horrible, no good idea. "There is a rush for AI companies to team up with space launch/satellite companies to build datacenters in space. TL;DR: It's not going to work." TARANIS IN TECH 12 Dec 2025 The short version: this is an absolutely terrible idea, and really makes zero sense whatsoever. There are multiple reasons for this, but they all amount to saying that the kind of electronics needed to make a datacenter work, particularly a datacenter deploying AI capacity in the form of GPUs and TPUs, is exactly the opposite of what works in space. If you've not worked specifically in this area before, I'll caution against making gut assumptions, because the reality of making space hardware actually function in space is not necessarily intuitively obvious. [...] The first reason for doing this that seems to come up is abundant access to power in space. This really isn't the case. You basically have two options: solar and nuclear. Solar means deploying a solar array with photovoltaic cells – something essentially equivalent to what I have on the roof of my house here in Ireland, just in space. [...] The first question is where in space? If you are in low Earth orbit (LEO), you are inside the inner radiation belt, where radiation dose is similar to that experienced by high altitude aircraft – more than an airliner, but not terrible. Further out, in mid Earth orbit (MEO), where the GPS satellites live, they are not protected by the Van Allen belts – worse, this orbit is literally inside them. Outside the belts, you are essentially in deep space (details vary with how close to the Sun you happen to be, but the principles are similar). There are two main sources of radiation in space – from our own star, the Sun, and from deep space. This basically involves charged particles moving at a substantial percentage of the speed of light, from electrons to the nuclei of atoms with masses up to roughly that of oxygen. These can cause direct damage, by smashing into the material from which chips are made, or indirectly, by travelling through the silicon die without hitting anything but still leaving a trail of charge behind them." [Follow link for full article] https://taranis.ie/datacenters-in-space-are-a-terrible-horrible-no-good-idea/ For more: AI, CPU, Design, GPU, Infrastructure, LLM Previous Next

< Back What Is The Fediverse The Fediverse is the buzziest new thing in social networking is a big deal. It’s also very confusing. And it’s not actually new. It’s an interconnected social platform ecosystem based on an open protocol called ActivityPub, which allows sharing of content, data, and follower graph between networks. The Verge 21 Apr 2024 "The fediverse is as if you took X, TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook and made them all interoperable so you could post anything from anywhere, and all your followers would be guaranteed to see it. And if you wanted to leave one platform for another, you could bring all your content, all your followers, all your everything with you. Oh, so it’s a new social network! Why didn’t you just say that? It’s actually lots of new social networks ! A bunch in the fediverse already exist, and lots more are coming. But the interconnection is the thing: instead of having all your Facebook stuff on Facebook and all your X stuff on X, the fediverse allows them to interoperate. That’s really the big shift here." [Follow link to read more } About the author By David Pierce , editor-at-large and Vergecast co-host with over a decade of experience covering consumer tech. Previously, at Protocol, The Wall Street Journal, and Wired. https://www.theverge.com/24063290/fediverse-explained-activitypub-social-media-open-protocol For more: Linked Data, Standards, Algorithm, Cloud, Protocols, AI, Meta Tags, Infrastructure, Design, Security Previous Next

Fourth Portal transforms traditional and derelict shops, pubs and public places* into activity and co-working spaces for entrepreneurs, start-ups and creative business people providing relaxed surroundings and ambient atmosphere in an imaginative setting. About Fourth Portal Before the onset of Covid-19 in early 2020, the Fourth Portal was on a journey to create real-world spaces that would introduce AI and Machine Learning to non-academic, non-technologist by creating hybrid venues that people could visit like any cafe or shop on the High Street. The original intent was to create some real-world spaces and introduce virtual working using emerging tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, almost unheard of outside technology and corporate circles. The pandemic turned this on its head, and the Fourth Portal had to pivot, to develop the virtual spaces first and then introduce the real-world opportunities. This is the story so far... Introduction | Fourth Portal plan in December 2019 Fourth Portal transforms traditional and derelict shops, pubs and public places* into activity and co-working spaces for entrepreneurs, start-ups and creative business people providing relaxed surroundings, ambient atmosphere in an imaginative setting with a range of services, products, events and exhibitions focused on new and future technology. How ideas become reality | A personal journey Fourth Portal is the brainchild of founder John McKiernan (history here ) who is fascinated by how ideas form and become reality, whether it's a business, technology or a work of art. This fascination is coupled with a frustration with an education system that seeks to systemise the process of bringing an idea to fruition by focusing on acronyms, models and flowcharts. Modelling is fine for iteration, making slight changes to a product or service, however there is limited value when deciding whether to develop an original idea and make it reality. Haphazard Business | How ideas become reality John once had a small chain of coffee bars in South London and was always intrigued by the number of ideas and schemes customers were trying to develop, whether a business start-up, researching for an academic qualification or creating a work of art. The joy, pain and reality in the processes of all these personal journeys shared certain traits: the inconsistency of everyday life, overcoming scepticism of peers, energy to carry through on an idea and of course the stark reality that some ideas are just not very good. Emergence of Fourth Portal | A road trip Fourth Portal itself has been an idea floating around in John's head for more than a decade, an idea that would capture peoples' imagination briefly only to fade as it could not be explained simply; making financial support difficult to obtain. So in early 2019, John set off on a self-funded Haphazard Business road trip (as a representation of the journey of discovery) to blog about the process of developing his idea of establishing an innovation hub. Haphazard Business became the name of the blog documenting his travels, emphasising how an original idea pivots as comments, circumstance and other haphazard factors feed in and alter progress. Meeting of Minds | Coincidence, synchronicity or luck During his haphazard journey, John attended many events, exhibitions and locations, allowing himself to drift with the flow rather than dictate or seek an outcome. This took him to many interesting places, discovered numerous insights and met some fascinating people, including Gillian Harwood, who would lead the project to Great Yarmouth, a down-at-heel Norfolk coastal town. Great Yarmouth | Gillian Harwood's story Gillian Harwood has been a successful entrepreneur for more than 40 years, and owns a number of small business work hubs, the largest of which is Busworks, in London's King's Cross (read more here ). Gillian fell in love with Great Yarmouth following a visit to the permanent Hippodrome Circus in 2017. Seeing the town was in steep decline, and lined with beautiful period architecture, Gillian decided to try and help kick off a change in fortunes by investing in some run down buildings and returning them to the splendour they once enjoyed. Meeting of Minds | Fourth Portal John met Gillian randomly over a glass of wine at the Royal Society of the Arts (RSA), where they are both fellows. John explained his journey and Gillian encouraged, repeatedly, for him to visit Great Yarmouth. Initially uninterested, over the summer of 2019 John became increasingly intrigued by the town, its decline and the potential to reinvent itself (more here ). Gillian offered John free use of the buildings she had purchased to trial out Fourth Portal and the project was born. Covid-19 | A Haphazard Response With the doors to Portal B just ajar for the first customers, the UK government ordered a lockdown to counter the rapidly spreading Covid virus, requiring all non-essential businesses to close. Across the world personal and commercial business went into a tailspin as governments responded in a haphazard fashion. Just as John set out on a haphazard business journey one year ago, now the rest of the world seems to have decided to join him... Read More >

This is a dummy page showing how an Impro Vox gig page may appear once the Culture Reverb memory system is live. It is for demonstration purposes only and not yet connected to the full network. ImproVox Gigs Impro Vox – Culture Reverb Demonstration Page This page is a demonstration of how Culture Reverb may look once live. The Impro Vox webpage automatically generates a gig page containing a full interactive list of performers. These pages will connect to individual artist pages, instruments, collaborations, and venues, allowing scenes to emerge from the data. Once fully live, everything on the page will be connected across the open web. Impro Vox is brought together by Freland Green and Stuart Wilding. For more information on Culture Reverb, contact John a John at info@fourthportal.com ImproVox #11 29 September 2025 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Veryan Weston Alan Wilkinson Phase IV Laura Fudge Dominic Thurston Matteo Malquori https://www.fourthportal.com/improv-performer/dominic-thurston ImproVox #11 ImproVox #10 30 June 2025 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Julia Brüssel Hannah Marshall Jonny Martin Anthony Osborne Seb Stone Scott Biagi Adrian Roper James Spatz ImproVox #10 ImproVox #09 19 May 2025 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Steven J. Fowler Benedict Taylor Saulius Bendoraitis Tomas Mejer Freland Green Matteo Malquori Mario Guarnieri Stuart Wilding ImproVox #08 14 April 2025 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Charlotte Keeffe Pete Robson Stuart Wilding Charlie Folorunsho Laura Fudge Sally Stamp Phil Hollins Akira Felix X Tigersonic Jo Morrison ImproVox #08 ImproVox #07 10 March 2025 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Viv Corringham Iris Garrelfs Elien De Schryver Barbara Mukoda Pete Robson Seb Stone Dominic Thurston ImproVox #06 5 February 2025 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Antonio Arca Mario Guarnieri Stuart Wilding Ben Watson Bill O’Connor Sophie Sleigh Johnson ImproVox #05 10 December 2024 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Maggie Nichols Mark Wastell Felix X Tigersonic Mario Guarnieri Simon Lawson Phil Hollins Freland Green ImproVox #04 28 October 2024 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Iris Colomb Lev Dudas Ian Kennedy Carina Tint Michael Zbyszynski Saulius Bendoraitis Isaac Robson Pete Robson ImproVox #03 30 September 2024 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Kay Grant Alex Ward Myco Phoonk Simon Lawson Matt Scott ImproVox #02 30 August 2024 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Antonio Arca Will Morland Barbara Mukoda Vivienne Soan Ben Watson Michael Zbyszynski ImproVox #01 8 July 2024 Bridewell Theatre Bar, 14 Bride Lane, Fleet Street, London, EC4 8EQ Sharon Gal Sue Lynch Adrian Roper Ian Kennedy Isaac Robson Andrea Bolzoni Scott Biagi Mario Guarnieri

< Back Joe Cleary Local-born and bred Joe Cleary is one-half of Hypermedia events who run monthly events within the Fourth Portal since August 2023. I first discovered the Fourth Portal in July 2023 from a friend of mine Harriet; she had been coming in since very close to the opening date, I believe. Q1: How and when did you first discover the Fourth Portal? I first discovered the Fourth Portal in July 2023 from a friend of mine Harriet; she had been coming in since very close to the opening date, I believe. Q2: What were your initial impressions? I was captivated from the off - if I'm being totally honest. Everywhere you look for longer than a couple of seconds, you find something new to interest you that all seem to amalgamate into one fluid entity. It's a must-have for Gravesend and Kent alike. Q3: How has Fourth Portal inspired you? The Fourth Portal has bridged the gap between my "imposter" syndrome and my ADHD and gave me the confidence and as equally important, the facility and encouragement to pursue my passions, which otherwise would remain an echo chamber in my head. It's been a very vital tool in allowing me to give myself a fair chance and level the playing field. Q4: Will the inspiration be of benefit in the future? The inspiration is not only of an emotional and support benefit for someone like myself, but it is also shaping up to be a major contribution to the event me and co-founder, Harriet run here one Wednesday a month, which is a complete bi-product of us just coming here to chill out and take in our surroundings. Q5: (optional) Anything you wish to add? I would like to thank Harriet, John, Lauren and all the people behind the scenes for the work they put in. I would also like to thank everyone who has attended hypermedia in any format and Harriet for all she does. Previous Next