My partner, Kate, and I had originally planned to travel to all 50 states in one year in our campervan. The trip was a visual research project exploring what it means to be American during these turbulent times. About a quarter of the way into the project our trip was cut short when coronavirus hit in March. We were devastated. The trip we had put so much time and money into was over. We were scared for our families, our friends, and for what coronavirus meant for the future.
We decided to self-quarantine at my parents’ unoccupied farm house for two weeks. Kate and I were exhausted from the trip and from current events. It felt rejuvenating to sit still and be in a real home with running water and a toilet. It was a time of healing, reflection and anticipation of what was to come next. While the world collectively waited and watched, we found peace in isolation. Although we both knew in time we’d have to face the unknown, in this moment we were safe from anxiety and fear.
