Read the story of Isis
Four generations of women in one suitcase
“My mother gave her suitcase to me and I am happy to pass it on to Fenix so that the story of my family becomes immortalized in a beautiful way.”
People rarely move empty handed. Suitcases form a central part of many stories about migration. That is why Fenix collected donated and built a maze with them. You might spot your own suitcase while walking through the corridors of the maze.
The suitcase of Isis is inherited through four generations of women. It begins with Marija, known to her great-granddaughter (in the picture) as “Nona,” who falls in love with a Dutch captain and embarks on a life-changing journey from her hometown of Trogir, Croatia. As World War II looms over Europe, Marija packs her life into two suitcases and, alongside her husband, flees to Antwerp. Though one suitcase is stolen, Nona presses forward, forging a new life in Northern Europe, her resilience following into every step of her path.
The remaining suitcase travels with Nona to the Netherlands, where it becomes a symbol of strength for the women in her family. Over time, it passes down to her granddaughters and, eventually, to her great-granddaughter Isis, who brings it to Fenix to share her family’s legacy. The suitcase, now part of The Suitcase Labyrinth, reflects not only the migration of one family but also the universal themes of departure, arrival, and the enduring connections we carry.
The Suitcase Labyrinth
This story of Isis' family can be heard in The Suitcase Labyrinth. Here you will discover stories of departure, arrival and the lives once carried in these humble suitcases. Find out more about The Suitcase Labyrinth.
