ShibariShibari

Expo Throughout the entire evening, the artworks of Luxje will be on display in Het Nieuwe Café. Her work will also be for sale.

History of Japanese and Western Bondage In this short lecture, Arjan Hageman (Haag) will teach attendees all about the history of the Japanese and Western bondage scene. This talk will explore the influences that have led to its current practice and popularity, pay homage to the many names that lifted Shibari into an artform and discuss some of its cultural challenges and taboos.

Rope Jam A "rope jam" is a meeting between practicioners and enthusiasts of rope bondage, where they can demonstrate and practice their skills. During this workshop a "guided jam" is organised in which we will start with some social exercises before continuing with a simple rope workshop led by Arjan and Kalyma, with support from Manuela and other members of the team. Starting with some basic techniques and complementing them with additional tips and tricks, you can explore Shibari with a partner, friend, new acquaintance or by yourself.

Performance To close off the evening, enjoy a performance by Samuel and Serotinal.

Participation is encouraged, however not mandatory. Rope will be provided by the organisation and is available for purchase at the event as well. We advise participants to wear comfortable clothing.

Manuela Gonçalves Tavares is a household name in Rotterdam, known from running several distinctive restaurants, with most recently Het Nieuwe Café being added to this list, but her peanut soup may be even more famous than she is. Not only is she a visionary chef, but you can also find her DJ-ing or contributing in other ways to the cultural life of Rotterdam. A couple of years ago she also started organizing events for the BDSM scene. Her goal is to raise awareness for this invisible community and to bring it into the deserved cultural limelight.

Arjan Hageman (Haag) is a professional rope bondage teacher and runs the Ellipsis Rope Events Foundation based in Rotterdam. He is passionate about bondage photography, community work and teaching. His technical approach to rope is complemented by his dance background, psychology studies and various hobbies that incorporate fine motor skills.

Luxje is a Rotterdam-based artist/illustrator, focusing mainly on erotica and body positivity. Her works are mostly digital, but sometimes she takes a sidestep to create art on wood, canvas or directly on paper. 

Kalyma has facilitated many events as a hostess. Her main goal during these events was creating a safe environment to talk about (sexual) taboos and personal experiences. She has recently become more active as a rope model, participating in the art installation Celestial Space by Stephanie Afrifa & NITE. Kalyma's rope experience is centered around challenging her physical boundaries and exploring her friendships.

Mayflower's fascination with bondage arose five years ago when she fully immersed herself in the scene. She started as a bottom which until this day is still her preference. She has also been exploring self-bondage for three and a half years, so she has experience with both sides of bondage.

Samuel and Serotinal are a couple from Rotterdam that found each other in their passion for Shibari. Together they describe their style as _etsu, _meaning pleasure, as they focus on the emotional and intimate side of rope bondage.