The TSA and the airlines seem to be moving towards banning electronic devices on airplanes coming into the the United States. I have to ask, what are we to do? Strap yourself into your seat-belt in, say Amsterdam, and consider the problem of facing six to eight hours of mind numbing time spent listening to the roar of the engines or better still watching last years’ movies on a screen that’s about a foot from your face – a space also occupied by your knees. They’re already charging for “extra legroom.” Can paying for the movie [again] be far behind? You’re already paying for the internet. But now you can’t, because no computer. Oh and the Captain just announced that we are forty-fifth in line to take off. Do I exaggerate?

One option is to read a book. That’s carbon! Ixnay on the indlekay! One piece of good news is that without my laptop I don’t have to spend my time rejecting spammer comments on this blog. By the way, it’s the Russians. I know that because the IP addresses are from Russia and, get this, the comments are in Russian. Yes, Mr. President, it’s the Russians. But I digress.

Getting back to the runway in Amsterdam. Back in the 15th century Amsterdam was the center for Flemish art. And it is in Flemish art that photographer Nina Katchadourian may have found the solution to the laptopless traveler’s dilemma. Head into the  restroom, use the materials at hand such as paper towels, and take selfies of yourself dressed as subjects in a Flemish portrait. Ms. Katchadourian has amassed an impressive portfolio of images called “Seat Assignment.” The project began spontaneously in 2010 and now consists of nearly 2500 photographs and videos, made on nearly 200 different flights. That’s a lot of frequent flyer miles.

I recommend highly that you do two things. First, check out “Seat Assignment.” Second, try it out for yourself before the airlines start charging for trips to the restroom and by the paper towel.