Activism School: Bound to You
Inspired by Anna-Stina Treumund’s activist undertakings and works of art the Kumu Art Museum has convened an Activism School, where we will learn together what opportunities we as citizens have to stand up for important values in different ways. We will also examine the current state of Estonian civic activism and how artists and art practices can contribute to it.
Similarly to Anna-Stina Treumund’s exhibition, the Activism School deals with the awareness of taboos and consent, highlighting the importance of a trustworthy, open and inclusive standpoint. From both a trusting and aesthetic point of view shibari or the art of binding is well suited for this, usually involving a binder and a bound person. Shibari can be both platonic and sensual, playful and healing. It is a practice that brings participants closer together, where all activities always take place according to previously agreed rules and mutual consent.
The workshop which will take place in the exhibition hall on the fifth floor of Kumu will introduce you to the sensory and physically captivating world of shibari. The experienced instructor Alina aka the Entangled Witch will provide an overview of the history and modern practice of the art of binding, shed light on processes of consent, on boundaries and negotiation providing an overview of physical and mental safety elements in tying a person and teach the basic techniques of tying ropes. Three types of knots will be practised together with the participants. Participants are welcome to attend the workshop both on their own or with a partner, friend or colleague. The workshop will be based on the principle of platonic tying, meaning the main emphasis is on background information and technical skills. Each participant will receive a shibari rope so further aware, trustworthy and informed practice is encouraged.
Alina aka the Entangled Witch has been practising binding as a form of creative self-expression for over seven years. She is fascinated by the aesthetics, sensitivity and relationship of the body bound with rope: playing with control and submission, strength and vulnerability, and even pleasure and suffering. Shibari has been a big part of her journey of self-development, helping her discover her strength and confidence as a woman, and fulfilling her desire to share beauty and emotions with people.
In recent years she has been joined by the model, muse and her dear friend Elsa with whom she has developed and pushed the boundaries of their skills and connection. Their partnership is based on deep trust, artistic curiosity and a shared desire to grow. They perform, practice and give shibari workshops one-on-one, transforming each moment of rope binding into a co-created moment of strength, vulnerability and presence. In her training sessions Elsa shares the importance of connection, explaining the experience from a physical and spiritual perspective, dissolving fears and warning of dangers. As a teacher the Entangled Witch values consent, thoughtful communication, safety and technical precision above all. Her workshops are interactive, practical and full of playfulness and curiosity.
The workshop will be preceded by a short tour of the exhibition Anna-Stina Treumund: How to Recognise a Lesbian?.
