Shibari Rope Jam | LGBTQIA+ Only - Taster jam
Thu Dec 12, 18:45 - Thu Dec 12, 21:00
Unit G19, Embodiment Rope Space
ABOUT
Embodiment Rope Space at its core, and as part of our ethos, is a queer first space for rope, Shibari, and education. Within the framework of our space's identity, we are committed to acknowledging our responsibility in South Africa by enhancing accessibility for individuals within and around our community.
If you are curious about Shibari but not sure of where and how to begin, join us to learn more about this rich, diverse and fascinating practice. We will teach some beginner-level content, a basic understanding of rope bondage and give you a sense of why we love rope so much! No pre-requisites - come as you are! Experienced practitioners are also welcome to come hang out, practice and share some skills.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Taster jams are focused on creating a safe and educational space to explore rope among our space holders and peers which isn't tuition-based. This means lower commitment while you figure out what rope is for you and how you would like to progress with it, if at all. We also hope to provide a calm and social space where you can have fun in a low-pressure environment.
In a general context, a "beginner" refers to someone who is starting to learn or do something for the first time. It is commonly used to describe individuals who are new to a particular activity, skill, subject, or field. Beginners are typically at the initial stage of acquiring knowledge, gaining experience, and developing basic skills in the chosen area. We call these Taster Jams as we want to give beginners a taste of rope, whilst still having an encouraging space for those who have tied before to practice and deepen their skill.
We feel that being a beginner is a natural and often temporary phase in the learning process. It implies a level of unfamiliarity and a need for foundational knowledge and skills. Beginners may seek guidance, instruction, and practice to progress from the novice stage to a more advanced level of proficiency in their chosen pursuit.
There may be some entry-level tuition for basic knots and space for experienced folks to tie if they do not want to participate in the tuition component, just ask our team if you need any help. We encourage attendees to get input on their technique from more experienced riggers and bottoms.
Events start promptly at 19:00. Please DM us via Instagram if you are running late. Doors are open from 18:40. Doors will be closed at 19:05 sharp. We will be strict about this since late entries are disruptive proceedings and disrupts privacy. Please have your tickets ready to be scanned on arrival.
OUR TEAM
Embodiment Rope Space is the love child of a group of volunteers from different walks of life coming together to actualize something we think the world needs: a queer safe(r) space for exploring kink as a healing, connective force.
You can follow us on Instagram here:
@embodiment_ct
@desirelinesbondage (she/they)
@faeriebunnyrope (she/her)
@rope.fu (he/him)
@gr_en.trapa (they/them)
@charliefrench_za (she/her)
@creaturale (they/them)
@sudo_kinbaku_ / @sudojute (he/they)
@fire_lily_kinbaku (she/her)
@bugartstuff (they/them)
@newyork.creations (they/them)
RULES
1. Be on time.
2. Respect the space. Leave no trace - whatever you bring, take it back with you.
3. Ego has no place here. Learn and share with humility.
4. Ask for people’s pronouns and use the ones you are given.
5. No shoes. Keep underwear on at public events. Nipples may be free.
6. Do not make unsolicited comments about anyone else's body.
7. Do not take any photos of anyone in attendance without consent.
8. Do not post photos without the consent of EVERYONE in the photo.
9. Do not reveal the identity of anyone you meet in the space once you leave. Many people prefer anonymity.
10. Be mindful of making noise in the space when others are tying around you, this includes loud talking and laughing.
11. Be discrete when moving through other parts of the premises. Clothes are optional in the space but not outside the door.
12. Please stay home if you are feeling unwell.
13. Please do not use any recreational drugs before coming or while on site.
FAQ
Why do the LGBTQIA+/queer jams exist?
There are so few spaces that are exclusively ours as queer people. The spaces that do exist are often nightclubs, which don't work for everyone, especially those who are sober. This is an example of a “third space” - not home or work - where queer people can gather in community. It's also unique in that it's a kink and sex-positive space, which seeks to educate and support safety in these areas.
What is Shibari/Kinbaku/Bondage?
The art of binding the body of a consenting adult.
Is rope/Shibari always sexual?
Rope/Shibari has many benefits and practitioners outside of the sexual paradigm. For some, it is about pushing their bodies not unlike engaging in strenuous exercise or extreme sports. For others, it is a way to reclaim their agency after trauma. It can also be a way to experience a connection with others without the scripts and expectations associated with genital contact. As long as what you are doing is consensual and intentional, we consider it healthy and valid.
What should I wear?
This is a friendly learning environment, not a sexual one, so crotches are to remain covered. Other than that, you are free to wear whatever you like. We find that it is easier to tie with minimal clothing or clothing that you can move in easily (leggings, shorts, etc.). Comfy, sexy, sporty, fetish - as long as your booty is covered, you are welcome here.
Should I bring my own rope?
We encourage all participants to bring their own rope if they have any. For those who do not have rope, we have quality rope from SudoJute on sale at our rope kiosk. Additionally, we have class rope for use during our jams as well. All our class rope is quality 6mm Tokyo Asanawa rope from SudoJute which has already been pre-treated and pre-used. We do not permit any fluids or crotch rope/face rope/mouth rope with our class rope.
Do I need a partner?
We encourage all jam participants, regardless of skill level, to practice and experience rope through the act of self-tying. Some of our jams and workshops may require participants to come partnered and will be outlined as such in the event description itself. For this jam, you are welcome to come solo. We do not pair up jam participants. This means that you may find someone on the night who will be willing to partner with you after walking through some pre-tying negotiation, but this is not a guarantee. If you are unpartnered, we encourage participants to watch, chat with our team, and self-tie.
Can I come if…
… I am a bisexual person currently in a straight relationship? Yes!
… I am questioning my sexual / gender identity and am not “out” yet or sure if these terms apply to me? Yes!
… I don't want to come out? Yes! Respecting one another's anonymity is one of our rules.
… I am a woman? If you are a trans/intersex woman, or a queer/lesbian woman, yes. If you're a straight cis woman, no.
… I am the straight partner of a LGBTQIA+ person? Nope, allies are to sit this one out.
Note on accessibility:
We believe rope is for every body. At the same time the building we are currently occupying does not allow for wheelchair access to ground floor ablution facilities. This is an ongoing negotiation with the current landlords. However the space itself allows for wheelchair access :)