Shibari, the Japanese art of erotic rope bondage, can trace its roots back to the 17th century as an offshoot of Hojojutsu, the martial art used by samurais to subdue prisoners with ropes. It evolved, rather poetically, into something more nuanced and expressive and by the 1950s, in the bustling heart of post-war Japan, Shibari emerged, not as a method of restraint, but as an art form, an expression of intimacy and trust. A practice where the ropes do not merely bind the flesh, but weave stories of vulnerability, connection, and a curious dance of control and surrender.
This Valentine’s Eve The Century will be hosting its first Shibari workshop with internationally recognised rope artist Nik Your Knots and Anna Noctuelle. The workshop will cover four distinct areas of Shibari. First you will learn the history and basics of rope handling and safety, emphasising communication techniques before progressing to advanced non-verbal communication through rope and body interaction, perfect for deeper connection. We’ll also explore rope bondage in bedroom and kink contexts, introducing various patterns and integrating other playful elements. Lastly, we focus on Ichinawa, the art of single rope techniques, emphasising improvisation and adaptability.
This workshop is designed to provide a well-rounded experience in the art of rope bondage where ropes become instruments of art, echoing a history that is as much about the human condition as it is about the intricate patterns they create.
SOME PRACTICAL INFORMATION:
– Workshop duration: 2.5 – 3 hours with a short break in the middle
– No experience is necessary and your ticket price includes two lengths of rope to practice with and take home.
– Please bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing
– Spaces are open to both duos and singles. Single attendees will be paired up with a partner on the day and also encouraged to switch.
Nik Your Knots
Nik is a globally recognised rope artist and educator. His unique style, influenced by training in Russia and the UK as well as lessons from diverse bondage artists, emphasises aesthetics and intention. Nik’s work, encompassing photography, video, performance, and installation art, also draws inspiration from poetry, dance, and sound design. Featured in Vogue Italia and Tattoofest Magazine, his work has been showcased in the Saatchi Gallery, London, and on HBO. Nik has performed at international events like the London Erotic Art Festival, Nude Noir in San Francisco, Wasteland Party in Amsterdam, and Bondage Night in China, showcasing his versatile and interdisciplinary approach to Shibari.
Anna Noctuelle
Anna discovered Shibari over 15 years ago and has worked with this art form as a model, performer and teacher as well as a designer. She is part of the teaching team at Anatomie Studio London, offers private teaching as well as co-teaching with other Shibari educators. She has taught and performed in various rope communities across Europe and international festivals such as Eurix. Her background in classical dance, her interest in Buddhism and meditation and her yoga practice influence her aesthetic and philosophical approach to Shibari and have provided her with exceptional body awareness skills in ropes and suspension.