“What We Carry” is an ode to my personal immigrant story, to the journey of refugees and immigrants in our community, and to the grief, memories, and hope we carry. It highlights the small, yet growing community of refugees in Northwest Arkansas, and invites other locals to meet our new neighbors. This project consists of original watercolor works illustrating the precious items each refugee or immigrant carried as they departed their homeland, along with several video interviews. It aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation of the struggles and strength of refugees, and open doors for building relationships.
Tram Colwin is a Vietnamese American watercolor artist, educator, and small business owner. She is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a BA in Fine Arts, where she was named Outstanding Senior Artist. Her work has been featured in magazines including FLUX Hawaii and At Home Arkansas. Tram is a co-founder of the Creative Social Retreat, a gathering space for anyone who seeks a nourishing environment to make artwork and expand their creative skill. She spends her free time with her husband, family, and friends, exploring the outdoors and the farmers markets of Northwest Arkansas.