The Westfriese Omringdijk is a monument to the centuries-long struggle of the Westfries against water. It is a symbol of technological ingenuity and survival instinct, and a human-made protection against the sea. An art competition organized by Kunst en Cultuur Noord-Holland called for a conceptual idea or sketch design for a connection that reunites the two separated parts of the Westfriese Omringdijk.
Ellen Holleman proposed a dynamic connection in the form of a self-service ferry, which would provide a natural slowdown and a unique experience for crossing the canal. The ferry's electric motor is powered by a solar balloon, and the route to the ferry takes people through a new ecological landscape. The design includes a bike path and a set of stairs for pedestrians to climb the grassy embankment. Holleman's design was selected as the second professional entry in the competition.