In September of 2024, Muskegon will be getting a giant metal structure installed that will measure 45 feet tall.

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It's supposed to represent a 'Portal to Muskegon history' but some think it looks like a giant butthole.

The Portal Sculpture In Muskegon Michigan

MuskegonCity Public Art Initiative The Portal Sculpture
Courtesy MuskegonCity Public Art Initiative / Canva
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In 2018 the city of Muskegon started the Muskegon City Public Art Initiative with the goal of installing 10 art installations.

Since then, they've installed seven of the ten with the next one being done by local artist Lee Brown which will be called 'The Portal'.

Symbolism Behind The Portal Sculpture In Muskegon

Courtesy MuskegonCity Public Art Initiative
Courtesy MuskegonCity Public Art Initiative
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The Portal, which will stand tall at four and a half stories, is rooted in several aspects of symbolism, Lee shared the symbolism behind 'The Portal'.

“To me, it is a real symbol of unity, that was part of the inspiration, is bringing people together around this piece and being able to walk through it and decide — if you wanted to — to be a better person. It also represents Sealed Power, a company founded in Muskegon in 1911 that made piston rings. I’m hoping (people) walk through it and enjoy it, just get a positive vibe about Muskegon, that’s my biggest hope is that there’s a vibe of positivity and continuity with the past, but moving into the future.”

 

What Is The Portal Sculpture Made From?

The 4 story art insulation will be made out of Corten Steel which is perfect for Michigan's crazy weather.

Corten Steel beam
canva
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Corten Steel resists the corrosive effects of rain, snow, ice, fog, and other meteorological conditions by forming a coating of dark brown oxidation over the metal, which inhibits deeper penetration and negates the need for painting and costly rust-prevention maintenance over the years.

Where Will The Portal Be Located In Muskegon?

The Portal art installation will be located on Shoreline Drive in Muskegon.

Michigan Art Installation Looks Like Giant Butthole

Everyone is a critic and 'The Portal' sculpture is no exception.

Some think it will look like the Stargate Portal.

Others have compared it to similar structures across the state of Michigan.

Sterling Heights $300,000 Golden Butthole

If you head to the east side of Michigan and drive along M-59 into Sterling Heights you will see what many have dubbed "The Golden Corridor"  as "The Golden Butthole".

The Golden Butthole of Macomb County via Facebook
The Golden Butthole of Macomb County via Facebook
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A Facebook page was even set up called The Golden Butthole of Sterling Heights.

As of last check it has over 13,000 followers.

All kidding aside I'm looking forward to seeing what 'The Portal" looks like when completed and think it's great that Muskegon is investing in art.

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