Q(uar) & A is a series of interviews with some of our favorite storytellers and creators about how they’re living while in lockdown.

Naomi Ko is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, actor, comedian, and cultural producer. Her TV pilot, “Nice,” was an official selection at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival and she is currently a Jerome Hill Artist Fellow in Film. 

Where are you currently sheltering in place?

I’m in Minnesota at my parents’ and duking it out over the AC thermostat.

What does your face mask look like? 

It’s gray. It’s got a little pocket where you change out the filter. My grandma sent us a bunch of masks from South Korea.

Do you follow any kind of routine at this moment? 

Hahahaha no. Unless drinking is a routine.

What are some pieces of entertainment that you have consumed and loved during this time?

I watched Never Have I Ever and that made me feel all squishy inside. I binged that in one night and laughed, cried, everything.

Are you working on anything during this time? And if you’re having trouble “creating” things at the moment, how are you getting around it?

Oofda. I’m doing a lot of community work right now. Trying to do my creative professional projects because deadlines are coming up, but I can’t concentrate. It’s so hard to focus. My friend and frequent collaborator May Lee-Yang and I are doing one-hour writing accountability bursts to get shit done.

Have you taken up any new hobbies? 

Playing Mario Kart online.

What’s the best meal you’ve eaten so far during quar? What’s the worst?

The best meal was Wendy’s spicy chicken nuggets. Worst? I ate three different types of yogurt in a row.

What’s your current iPhone wallpaper and what’s the story behind it?

It’s of a dragon. My friend’s mom said that this year was going to be bad for me as a horse (Chinese zodiac) and that having an image of a dragon near me would ward the bad luck away. I’m not sure it’s working. And I’m pretty sure this year has been bad for all of us.

What’s the best quar purchase you’ve made so far?

The best purchase so far are these Public Supply Velour notebooks. They’re my favorite notebook brand (thick paper and pen does not bleed through) and I love the feel of the velour, it makes me feel fancy even though I always wear gym shorts. They’re on sale at West Elm.

Who are the writers, storytellers, or makers who are bringing you great joy right now?

Atsuko Okatsuka, a comedian, continues to bring my joy. Whether it’s videos of her family twerking/dancing (yes Atsuko’s Grandma shakes it too) or her comedy via her podcasts, Atsuko always brings a smile to my face.

Follow Naomi (@konaomie) on Instagram and Twitter.