Shibari/Kinbaku is a Japanese form of tying people with ropes which was horrific in its past, however the ideas of modern Japanese slavery have changed and taken on a different meaning in today’s world. This has grown into art nowadays, the „essence“ of which, although it may differ depending on individual interests; I think we can generally say that in most cases it is about the liberation of the body and soul through bondage reaching a state of catharsis.

It is a nonverbal communication form where the object is the rope and the subject is being chosen by the two parties, considering their wishes and the „wheel of consent“. It is a play of trust, vulnerability, listening.

For Julia Shibari is a kind of gate to experience our true selves which transcend our character. In the catharsis experienced in tragedy, when opposing forces necessarily clash (in this case most likely these are pain and pleasure), a gate opens. As in death. Perhaps one of the keywords of Shibari for her is “death”. The fulfillment of life in death. The boundaries of the „I“ are blurred, the two people merge together, turning into a common dance. It can never be the same, nor can two moments.

Requirements: 

Bring ropes if possible. Julia will bring every one of hers, but depending on the amount of people, hers might not be enough. They don’t have to be special but make sure it has pleasant contact with the skin.

Willingness to be in contact with someone you may not know is recommended, for the sake of learning on each other’s bodies. You can also come in pairs if that suits you more. 

Bring your curiosity and playfulness.

Dates :                                              June 29/ 30

Time :                                               12- 17h/ Sa&So

Place :                                               Austober, Rappoltshof 10, Basel

Cost :                                                 120.- Fr

Application Deadline :                June 23

Info and application :                  flaviaghisalberti708@gmail.com,

 +41 79 7801465

Júlia Gombkötő is a contemporary dance performer from Hungary. She developed passion and interest in shibari a few years ago and since then she practices it.