InLiquid member Krista Dedrick Lai has kept herself busy during self-quarantine by doing yoga and spending quality time with her son during social distancing and self-quarantine.
What are you doing to keep sane during this time?
After white knuckling through the first few days of social distancing, and all the fear and change that entailed… my strategy has become: lowering my expectations… of myself, others and especially my young son. Before coronavirus, my solo show had just opened at The Mill, in Wilmington DE, and I was planning a talk and closing reception. Like so many others I have struggled to cope as daily routines have been turned upside down, eagerly anticipated events have been canceled, and plans have been significantly altered. The unknowns seem to pile up so high they blot out the sun.
I do yoga and try to remind myself that “the only thing constant is change” … that I’ve adapted before. I’ve begun inviting my son to collaborate with me, recognizing that my work will need to change at this moment when we are almost constantly together. I remember that artists have survived war, famine, disease and more and rejoice in moments of shared humanity: like the videos of the Italians singing from their balconies… or a Zoom virtual happy hour date with friends.
I look for the silver linings, like how content my son is having both of his parents so nearby. I am reminded constantly of how human I am… how human we all are. Our future has never been certain. And we have always hung by a thread of interrelated dependency on each other, with little individual control. It is a difficult reality to contemplate and accept.
Do you have any advice for others?
Lower your expectations!
What’s your trick to making sure you’re washing your hands for 20 seconds?
Sing Songs!
Do you have any TV or movie recommendations?
I recently watched I Am Not Okay With This and found it very charming. I’m also eagerly awaiting the return of Stranger Things and Killing Eve.
Tell us about your studio practices!
I used to have a couple of days each week of childcare to work. My husband is now working remotely, from my studio, and I am with my son all week long. I have been inviting my son to collaborate with me so that I can still create a little bit.