In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this inquiry delves into the intensifying power dynamics between individuals and the state, shedding light on the imperative to address the evolving tension between personal subjectivity and state authority. Rooted in first-hand experiences during the pandemic in China, the research employs care as the lens to view the complex state-individual relationships and tease open an understanding of the complex relations of power and how they operate in society – between people and the state, through the discourse of self. Donna Haraway has gifted a resonant and active phrase that I embrace in my work – ‘staying with the trouble’ which for me encapsulates the commitment to confront challenges, fostering a compassionate understanding of contemporary complexities, and cultivating fresh perspectives on potential resistance. The research findings are presented through an exhibition that features installations and photography, designed to engage the audience haptically in a meaningful dialogue. This innovative approach goes beyond traditional academic formats, offering an immersive experience that encourages reflection on the nuanced interplay of power, care, and resistance in times of crisis, transcending borders and offering a universal perspective on the subject.