This two part workshop is dedicated to deconstructiong, comparing and deeply analysing the Gote. 

The Gote, Takate Kote (TK) or otherwise known as the Box Tie is the most famous pattern that exists within Japanese Shibari and is often the most used tie amongst the Shibari community. Although it might seem like a standardised pattern, there are so many varieties of the Gote from different styles, schools and approaches to Shibari. Choosing the right Gote for you is an important decision that can help to fulfill your intention as to why you tie. This choice is affected by numerous factors: the preferences from the people you tie, if you want to do dynamic suspensions, if you want to prioritise intensity or 'seme', and also the aesthetic expression of the pattern. In this class we will be comparing three different Gotes that are popularly practiced, an 'Akechi' Style 3TK, a Naka Style two rope Gote and also a one rope style inspired by Yukimura Ryu. The class will begin with a seminar explaining the differences in these styles, and we will discuss where are the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. The main focus of this first part of the class is to observe and discuss the Gote from an analytical approach. Students will then be given practice time to try these different Gotes and experience the difference in expression, intention and aesthetics.

In the afternoon I will share my approach and experience with tying the Gote taught to me by Naka Akira. We will be discussing the adaptable and adaptive nature to this tie. Students will learn how to tie a two rope Gote and how to use this Gote in suspension. We will explore body handling when tying the Gote, finding the right tension for your partner, aesthetics and mitigating risks when using this Gote for suspension.  After learning the technique of the Gote, we will be exploring how to use the Gote with emphasis on the Gote as a tool for play and impacting the model's headstate. This will be taught through a demonstration, students will be given space at the end of the class to practice based on the demonstration shown; with options to play only on the floor, partial suspension or full suspension depending on their skill level and experience. 

Prerequisites: 

experience tying any form of suspendable TK and preferably experience with suspension, this goes for both model and rigger

For the model: awareness of how to discern between nerve and blood compression. Ability to clearly communicate feedback of their physical state in the tie and experience being in a TK for extended amount of time

$260 RSVP for a tying pair

As with other international guests, the process to register has 2 steps: a deposit to RSVP your ticket and a CASH BALANCE which you will need to bring on the day of the event. All details in the confirmation email.

If the event is sold out, you can sign up for a WAITLIST HERE

CANCELLATION POLICY: you can reschedule once or ask for a refund up to 48 hours before the event. A processing fee of 5% will be subtracted from all refunds. No refunds will be issued with less than 48 hours notice.