RopuNawa first encountered Shibari/Kinbaku in 2008 at a performance in Australia. This performance stayed with him on his way back to Switzerland, where he began his own journey with the rope. He formed the foundation from Osada Steve’s style, which was taught in Switzerland at that time. However, he did not stay with this one style, but was inspired by many other teachers. For RopuNawa, there is not one way to tie, but the heart of his style lies in the need of his model. These needs can be as diverse as the individuality of the people themselves, and through the diversity of his style, he can best respond to his partners needs and wants. He appreciates the non verbal connection, that he can create with each tying partner.

The aesthetics he picked up while first getting to know Naka’s style, who influenced him early on. While Naka still accompanies him today, Tifereth has inspired him on this path for the last 2 years as well.

Yoroi was another of his great first influences, who’s style gave RopuNawa’s taste for less is more space to develop. Yagami Ren also influenced him in this direction.

Today RopuNawa unites parts of all these styles in his personal rope art, which he lives and teaches in Basel to students all over the world, as he continues to travel worldwide, giving workshops and getting inspired by his old teachers and new encounters.

Find out more about his space and offerings here https://www.tyingwithfriends.com/

Freya discovered rope in 2015. Driven by her fascination with communication through the body — beyond words and algorithms — she found herself repeatedly drawn to Shibari. Through this practice, she explored and deepened both intensity and the subtle dynamics shared with her partner.

Immersing herself in the art of rope bondage has become an essential platform for her personal expression. Within physical limitations, she experiences an unexpected sense of freedom that arises through surrender. By embracing boundaries, her mind becomes an explorer, venturing into realms of imagination and self-discovery.

As both, a model and educator, it is deeply important to her to share a balanced and authentic perspective on the development as a Shibari model. She values transparency about growth, challenges, responsibility, and the emotional depth that accompanies this path. For her, education is not only about technique, but about encouraging awareness, critical reflection, and a sustainable approach.

Since 2018, her ongoing passion has taken her across international stages as a model for workshops, photo shoots, and performances — allowing her to deepen her perspective and share her experiences.

Combining different styles to create something new, exciting and unique

Shibari offers a wide range of styles, schools and approaches. In RopeFusion, we explore how combining different elements can expand our repertoire and open up new creative possibilities.

To merge styles successfully and responsibly, it is essential to understand the individual components of a tie — their original intention, structure and mechanics. Throughout this workshop, we will analyse foundational shapes, examine their function, and explore when and how elements from different styles can be combined in a safe and meaningful way. We will also address potential caveats and structural considerations when blending techniques.

Throughout the workshop, we move into a deeper exploration of minimalism, body mechanics and intentional restriction. We will work with the locking of specific body parts and investigate how breath, tension and structure can influence both, floor work and suspension. Special emphasis will be placed on emotional presence, connection and the dynamic between rigger and model while tying.

The background or stylistic “school” of participants is not important. What matters is openness towards a non-normative and non-dogmatic approach to rope, as well as solid suspension experience from both rigger and model.

Please note:

We will primarily tie on bamboo.

Please bring 10-12 ropes (7–8m each).

We will begin with foundational shapes and build from there. The depth and complexity we reach will depend on the overall level of the group.

This workshop is not suitable for beginners.

Level: Advanced

Prerequisites

The rigger must be able to tie a safe, stable and loadable gote and suspension line that the rope model feels confident and comfortable in. Both partners should have experience with various suspensions and feel secure in body management in rope.

Content may vary from previous RopeFusion workshops.