The city has changed

The present city weapon is centuries old and strongly connected to the past. It tells the story of where Helmond comes from and how the city has changed over the years. We want to keep it that way, according to Mark Boetzkes. But fair is fair: The current design is now greatly stunned and only a minimal representation of the rich image it once was. In addition, Helmond as a city has changed considerably over the years. Helmond is traditionally an industrial city with hardworking people. Meanwhile, it is also a city of modern young people, creative makers, entrepreneurs and doers. A city in which the expression of your identity is no longer exceptional, but a form of self-expression. Tattoos have been used for centuries to capture important life events and memories. They are a powerful way to express yourself. What was once considered rebellious is now quite normal. What used to be hidden can be seen. Also showing pride in the city where your roots lie is increasingly seen as a way to convey your identity. Mark van Boetz Tattoo saw a chance to put the city weapon in a new jacket.

"We do not want to replace the design, but to give the residents the opportunity to show their pride and identity in the street."

The weapon in a new jacket

Mark reinterpreted Helmond's weapon and drew it in a Helmondable way: Tough, powerful and respectful of the past. The new design must appeal to the real Helmonder and once again make proud of the history of this special industrial city. The design is close to the current inhabitants of Helmond, for whom self-expression and creativity have become increasingly important. The renewed city weapon shows emotion, perseverance and strength. Just like a city weapon is meant to be. This creative project shows that pride at Helmond is not only in history, but also in the people that make up the city today.

Collaboration with the Helmond clothing brand BRACKET

What if the city weapon is not only a historical symbol, but also a personal story? And why would it only be visible on a façade or on paper, if it can also be worn? That thought formed the basis for the collaboration between Jacky Ottenheijm of BRACKET and Mark Boetzkes. Together they gave the new design of the Helmond city weapon a place where it can literally be worn with pride. Not only on the white cloth or on the skin, but also visible on the street: on T-shirts and hoodies. This exclusive collaboration between two Helmond entrepreneurs fits perfectly with the philosophy of BRACKET: a brand with Helmond roots and a focus on special collaborations and creativity.