In this weekend workshop, we will be exploring the ‘classic’ shapes of Shibari, which will be referred to as ‘archetypes’.
Even though Shibari is still early in its development, there are already clear repeated patterns in its short history. These shapes have become synonymous with practicing Shibari, particularly with a Japanese influence rather than drawing from Western bondage. Shapes such as Kata-Ashi Zuri (one leg suspension), Gyaku-Ebi Zuri (reverse shrimp suspension), and Gote Shibari (hands tied behind the back) are often practiced, however rather than teaching with an ideal form, in these workshops, we will be eliminating the poses to their most essential intentions and expressions. The classes will each be demonstrated on different bodies and with different styles so that students are encouraged to practice a variation that most suit them.
What is an Archetype?
An archetype can be any of the following:
a statement, pattern of behavior, prototype, or main model that other objects copy, emulate, or “merge” into. You could also consider this a “standard example”
the Platonic concept of pure form is believed to embody the fundamental characteristics of a thing.
a collectively-inherited unconscious idea, a pattern of thought, image, etc., that is universally present, in individual psyches, as in Jungian psychology
a constantly-recurring symbol or motif in literature, painting, or mythology. This definition refers to the recurrence of characters or ideas sharing similar traits throughout various, seemingly unrelated cases in classic storytelling and the media. This usage of the term draws from both comparative anthropology and Jungian archetypal theory.
By looking at shapes as Archetypes, rather than as an ideal form, only then can we understand what is necessary to maintain or what modifications are needed to adjust to the individual experience. We will be exploring how to modify and choose variations depending on skill level, risk assessment, body differences, and also on what kind of mood or sensation you want to focus on. Each Archetype will also include options with and without suspension.
Each class will involve a detailed discussion about each Archetype’s aesthetics, and physical and psychological effects as well as how to play with them for different purposes such as versatility for transitions, Semenawa, or more comfortable suspension. The workshop will also leave a large portion of space for discussion and labbing so that students have time to develop their own modifications.
Event Details
Date & Time: January 20 & 21, 2024, 11 am – 6 pm
Format: Workshop
Audience: LGBTQIA+ & FRIENDS
Language: English
Minimum Knowledge Level: Familiar with tying harnesses for suspension and suspension line lock-offs. Recommended to attend with a partner that you have experience tying with.
What to Bring: ropes, safety eqiupment
Solo or Partnered: partnered.
Ticket: Price is per pair
What we teach/offer:
Day 1: Gote and Kata Ashi
We will begin by looking in detail at different Gote variations including, arms free, stemless, or stem Gotes. Then we will look at the single-leg tie (Kata Ashi) with options to tie on the floor, standing, or in suspension.
Day 2: Gyaku Ebi and Mermaid (Torsion)
We will study different ways to tie the Gyaku Ebi (hogtie), on the ground, from standing and suspended from the ground. After this, we will look into how to create a twist in the body with the Mermaid position.
Mandatory Covid-19 rules
If you would like to inform yourself about other safety measures we have in place, please consult our Covid-19 measurements here.
Accessibility Note
The workshop is held in spoken English. German can also be provided. The space, KARA, is on the ground floor but has three steps to enter the house. A ramp for wheelchairs is available at all times. There is also a parking space available right in front of the door if needed. KARA has an accessible bathroom available. There are no thresholds in the entire house. The garden is only partially accessible at the moment. During the workshop, we will sit on the floor. Sitting in a chair can also be provided. Adaptations for physical needs will be shown and can also be provided upon request. If you participate in this workshop and need more assistance please message us at info@karada-house.de beforehand.
Accommodation:
For people coming to this workshop from out of Berlin, we can offer you accommodation in our space (mattress, bed linens, cushions, bathroom, shower, and kitchen) in the common area. If you are interested, please message us at info@karada-house.de
Who is this event for?
LGBTQIA+ describes the full spectrum of non-mainstream sexual orientation and/or gender identity, meaning: lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, transgender, non-binary, genderqueer/fluid,
Friends describes people of any and all kinds of gender and sexual identities who are aware and respectful of the necessity, needs, and boundaries of a queer safe(r) space and its marginalized community.
When you consider yourself a friend you show acknowledgement to and are respectful of everyone’s self-expression and do not assume, presume or project non-consensual ideas onto others. You actively request and use people’s chosen pronouns. You remain mindful of the fact that Karada House is first and foremost a space for queer people that you are also invited to attend. You have a genuine concern for the well-being of LGBTQIA+ people and remain in awareness of heterosexual and gender straight privileges.
Friends don’t have to be perfect. None of us are. We request that we all pro-actively work and strive to be good friends and allies to marginalized people.
