The Cornerstones of Semanawa

Join us as we explore traditional semenawa from both practical and theoretical perspectives. We will delve into its iconic patterns, structural principles, and the underlying philosophy of this unique style.

Rather than defining seme as a fixed concept, this workshop will unpack it through various lenses: technical, psychological, emotional, and relational. We will investigate how these elements influence the experience of seme, viewing it not just as an action, but as an internal state and an interpersonal dynamic.

A key area of focus will be the relationship between intention and effect: how technical choices influence emotional responses and how seme exists in the interaction between rigger and model, rather than being exclusive to one role.

Instead of providing a singular interpretation, this workshop is designed to equip participants with tools, references, and embodied experiences that foster reflection, questioning, and the development of personal understandings of seme. We will blend observation, discussion, and hands-on practice to encourage critical thinking and personal reflection, emphasizing individual sensibilities and backgrounds.

The goal is not to replicate a style, but to comprehend its cornerstones, empowering participants to consciously decide how (and if) to integrate them into their own practice.

Lunch Break 🍽️
A one-hour lunch break will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own food or visit nearby restaurants.

The TK

We will analyze a stemless gote, understanding its structure and historical development. Differences from the original Japanese TK will be examined from both technical and philosophical perspectives.

Basic Patterns

Several iconic patterns will be taught and applied, incorporating both floorwork and suspensions. Each basic pattern will be used to impart skills applicable to various ties.

Variations

Depending on participants' levels, certain basic ties may be modified and transformed into new shapes. Variations will be skill-oriented, promoting improved rope and body handling while experimenting with new ties.

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Instructors 👩‍🏫👨‍🏫

Kirigami

An Italian rope performer and educator active across Europe since 2012, Kirigami collaborates with Sugiura Norio Sensei (since 2023) and has contributed to international workshops and media production. Kirigami became the first non-resident of Japan invited to tie for Kinbaku Sajiki in 2025.

Saara Rei

A multidisciplinary performance artist and Kinbaku educator, Saara has a background in music, dance, education, and public speaking. She is a co-founder of Embodied in Rope and co-hosts the podcast Model Behaviour, focusing on rope as a medium for vulnerability, presence, and truth.

Requirements

Tops:

• Solid TK (any style)
• Safe and efficient upline management
• Experience with easier suspensions

Bottoms:

• Comfortable in a gote
• Understanding of comfort vs sustainability
• Awareness of nerve and circulation risks
• Ability to self-regulate