A Sea of Words for Portsmouth

Step into a sea of light, memory and hope.

A Sea of Words for Portsmouth is a large-scale immersive installation by acclaimed Hong Kong artists Kingsley Ng and Stephanie Cheung, produced by SCT partners, Crying Out Loud and presented in partnership with 432 Nomads.

This is the first art event of its kind in the recently restored Grade II listed Boathouse 5, here in Portsmouth's Historic Quarter, transforming the space into a place for contemplation, connection and collective expression.

Shaped by the voices of Portsmouth, the work brings together one hundred single-word contributions on paper boats and ten featured stories offering deeper reflections on sanctuary and belonging. A circular trail leads to a 20-metre illuminated pool – a shared space for reflection and connection, enriched by light, sound and archive footage.

In partnership

Open for just nine days, from 18-26, this October , the installation is part of Our Sanctuary: Ocean of Voices – a seven-month, community-led arts project exploring stories of migration, belonging and resilience, led by 432 Nomads. It is also presented as part of In Our Words, Portsmouth’s 2025 celebration of literature, storytelling and creative expression, led by Portsmouth Creates.

A Sea of Words for Portsmouth is supported by Portsmouth Historic Quarter, Arts Council England and the Hong Kong Arts Development Council.

FREE FOR PORTSMOUTH RESIDENTS (eligible postcodes) of all ages. You are invited to contribute to the artwork with world-class acclaimed artists.

Find out more about the project and how to get involved on the Crying Out Loud project page

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