Bell Circles II

Bell Circles II is a bronze bell installation located at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, set within a brick and granite pagoda structure. The artwork features multiple bell elements arranged within an architectural frame that integrates with the surrounding complex.

The bell was presented to Portland in February 1990 by the city of Sapporo, Japan as a symbol of their sister city relationship. This gift commemorated the partnership between the two cities through a permanent public artwork.

The installation brings together Japanese and Korean bell elements, creating an auditory bridge between cultures through its automated ringing system that operates daily. Visitors experience how the sound connects different traditions in a single public space.

The installation is located in the Lloyd District and accessible during Oregon Convention Center operating hours. The site offers easy foot access from the surrounding area and serves as a public artwork that visitors can enjoy freely.

The bell system operates on two distinct ringing schedules that shift with the solstices and equinoxes throughout the year. This astronomy-inspired programming creates subtle seasonal variations that only regular listeners tend to notice over time.

GPS coordinates: 45.52672,-122.66192

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:04