Eleven days ago I returned from California to Singapore where the Corona Virus contagion has been kept in check. For over a week I traveled to my studio on public transportation and swam in public pools. No lock-down here.

Today however, the climate changed. Upon entering my local pool I was presented a form to fill out asking if I had traveled within the past 14 days. As I ticked this box, I was unceremoniously kicked out. In addition, I have received periodic calls from the Ministry of Health inquiring if I exhibited any virus symptoms. It’s impressive how Singapore has mobilized itself to battle this evil empire.

Centuries ago, communities erected castles with massive stonewalls to keep out invaders. Freedom of movement was generally considered a privileged though positive activity. Today however, travelers are the main reason why this virus won’t stop spreading. There are no walls tall enough to keep us safe. Traveling has created a divide between the safe and the not so safe. Mobility has its advantages and yet during this cloudy fragment of history, the negatives outweigh the positives.