‘ De Steek ’ on Burgemeester van Houdtplein is impossible to miss. The bright red colour of this modern artwork stands out strikingly against the grey stones of the square. A cheerful statue in all its simplicity, which you can admire beautifully from one of the benches surrounding it.
Some facts at a glance
Designer: Nop Mercx
When: 2011
Why: a gift from the Brotherhood of Princes to the people of Bladel.
Discover its story
‘No people, no carnival’, said the former Princes of the Carnival Association…
‘ De Steek ’ on Burgemeester van Houdtplein is impossible to miss. The bright red colour of this modern artwork stands out strikingly against the grey stones of the square. A cheerful statue in all its simplicity, which you can admire beautifully from one of the benches surrounding it.
Some facts at a glance
Designer: Nop Mercx
When: 2011
Why: a gift from the Brotherhood of Princes to the people of Bladel.
Discover its story
‘No people, no carnival’, said the former Princes of the De Muggezifters Carnival Society from Bladel, united in the Brotherhood of Princes. That is why they wanted to present the villagers with a monument – a work of art in which everyone could recognise themselves. Nop Mercx succeeded in this, as the village has embraced De Steek . The artist drew inspiration from the princely carnival regalia: his hat and cape are unmistakably present. On the natural stone base, you’ll discover small round discs scattered here and there, like confetti strewn during carnival. If you look closely, you’ll see a name and a year on each piece of confetti. These refer to the 44 former Princes of the Muggeziftersrijk who have held the title up to that point.
Another interesting fact
: Designing a beautiful statue is one thing, but it still needs to be made. Leave that to a few former Princes of the Brotherhood. A fine example of craftsmanship.