— The Learning Behind the Teaching
My Studies
My approach to kinbaku has developed through study, practice and learning from others. The teachers, private tuition and workshops below have helped shape how I tie, what I value in rope and how I teach.
2026
Hourai Kasumi & Akane
2-3 May 2026 · Shibari Lounge, Antwerp · Workshop
Two days with Kasumi Hourai and Akane exploring classical Japanese kinbaku from both the rigger’s and model’s perspectives. Practical study covered floorwork, suspension and transitions, including bamboo as part of the tie, alongside discussion of cultural context and the relationship between technique, psychology and intensity.
2023
Naka Akira
21-22 October 2023 · Kinbaku Lounge, Copenhagen, Denmark · Workshop
Two days studying kinbaku with Naka Akira in Copenhagen, in a kenkyūkai, or study seminar. An opportunity to continue exploring his approach and deepen my understanding of his kinbaku.
Hourai Kasumi
22-24 September 2023 · Shibari Lounge, Antwerp · Workshop
A weekend continuing my studies with Kasumi Hourai, building on my earlier introduction to her interpretation of Naka-style kinbaku. An opportunity to revisit her approach and further explore the relationship between technique, Japanese aesthetics and personal expression.
Kazami Ranki
25-26 February 2023 · Shibari Lounge, Antwerp · Workshop
A weekend studying Kazami Ranki’s individual style of kinbaku. Strongly influenced by Akechi Denki, with whom he shared the stage, Kazami developed his own approach centred on sadomasochistic play. Learning directly from him offered another perspective on the Akechi influence that has long interested me in my own studies.
Nuit de Tokyo
28 January 2023 · Studio TIEY, Antwerp · Workshop
A study of Nureki Chimuo & Akechi Denki.
2022
Aku Aku / Mark
2022 · Shibari Lounge, Antwerp · Workshop
A workshop exploring Kinoko’s Ichinawakai style, focusing on chest harness construction and suspension. An opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of this approach through practical study.
2021
Akechi Kanna
13 March 2021 · Virtual · Workshop
An online workshop with Akechi Kanna about Kanna Style I: Predicament with Floorwork.
Naoko
27 February 2021 · Virtual · Workshop
An online workshop with Naoko (prev. Subay) focused on kata ashi, exploring variations of upright suspension with one leg raised. The session examined balance, load distribution and adapting support to the person in rope, alongside the role of eye contact and personal connection.
2019
Hourai (蓬莱) Kasumi (かすみ)
18-20 October 2019 · Amsterdam, Netherlands · Workshop
Three days exploring Kasumi Hourai’s interpretation of Naka-style kinbaku, combining technical fundamentals with Japanese aesthetics and her own approach. The workshop covered gote, suspension and transitions, with attention to diagonal lines, body shapes and the use of juban and tenugui in creating a scene.
2016
Pedro
18 June 2016 · Rotterdam, Netherlands · Workshop
A workshop with Pedro exploring ties and suspension approaches influenced by Akechi Kanna’s 明智神凪 style, including hishi gote, tengu and hikyaku variations. Particular attention went to rope tension, suspension attachment points and the details of construction and positioning.
2013
Naka (奈加) Akira (あきら)
1-4 October 2013 · Resistance Gallery, London · Workshop
Four days studying Naka Akira’s approach to kinbaku, exploring gote, floor ties and suspension, with particular attention to rope placement, tension and body positioning. Alongside the technical work, he emphasized understanding the fundamentals and developing your own style.
2006
Saikatsu (才勝さんが)
2 April 2006 · Tokyo, Japan · Private Workshop
Studying Akechi Ryū in Tokyo with Mr. S., who had spent over twenty years alongside Akechi Denki and continued teaching his style after his death. A meaningful opportunity to explore the tradition, beauty and suffering that had first drawn me to Akechi’s work.
This is a selection of the studies that have had a lasting influence on my kinbaku, rather than a complete record of every workshop or lesson. Learning also happens beyond organised tuition, through personal practice, exchange with others and the people I tie with.
