6 & 7 september 2026
6 & 7 september 2026
The idea for 3DME had been around for a few years but never came to fruition. It seemed like they would build something different than 3DME, again this year. According to Robin Jochems, they “sat down for longer to work out the composition, to connect an image to the music experience”. To convey energy, they needed something balanced, which is why the design has a symmetrical form. After trying various shapes, the floating form worked best, so they looked for a way to make the float appear to float. This year, there will be no pushers for the Heikant float, as it will be electrically propelled. Additionally, the construction and wheels will be hidden behind mirrors to divert attention from the bottom of the float.
The float itself isn’t large, which was a deliberate choice by the hamlet to avoid placing a heavy burden on a small group of people. This doesn’t mean the float isn’t a challenge; the music is the guiding force behind the design. The music influenced the shape and will also influence the final result. Every stem on the float will move, mostly connected, but they will appear to move independently. There are three musical pieces for inspiration, but Arjan van Trigt will compose a new piece specifically for the float to best express this “energy and colour explosion”. Choreographer Anne Mutsters has been asked to instruct the performers. Although the performers won’t be visible, the intention, rhythm, and dynamics of the float must feel like a single, cohesive unit, which is only possible if everyone “feels” the music. The performers aren’t visible, but there is definitely choreography.
So, sit back and let it all wash over you… or be blown away!
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3DME is a collaboration between four Heikant designers. Robin Jochems (34) is a spatial designer, and this is his twelfth design for the Corso. Famke Jochems (27) is a digital illustrator, and this is her sixth design. Tim Dockx (27) is a metalworker, and this is his fourth design, while Sven van Hoof (25), an industrial designer, is on his fifth design.
Original Dutch Text: Miranda Eiting
Translation: Saskia Molema
Photo: Paul Ranft
Hamlet Klein-Zundertse Heikant
www.denheikant.nl
This article is brought to you by Corsief. An independent magazine about corsos in general and the Zundert flower parade in particular. The magazine is produced entirely by volunteers, who are all more or less active in the Zundert flower parade world. Corsief is entirely full-colour and appears four times a year.