In this workshop, lift is a continuation of touch. We will study a series of sequences that begin on the ground and with the use of a block pulley gradually and other strategies to slowly hoist the body without losing the quiet dialogue between both people.
It is about learning how to move together while the body is partially or fully lifted, without the person tying needing to stand above or away from their partner.
Both people will remain close to the floor, close to each other and in continuous physical conversation.
This workshop is body-inclusive, allowing participants of all shapes and sizes to fully explore the sequences and emotional landscape.
Class Content
Across the weekend, we will look at how harness choice, body positioning, rope tension, pulley height and hand placement can change the emotional quality of a tie. Small adjustments will be treated as meaningful gestures, allowing each sequence to become slower, more responsive and more personal.
The technical focus will include gentle semi suspensions, low suspension transitions, lowered pulley systems, sustainable line management and safe mechanical lifting. We will spend time understanding how to build systems that feel calm and controllable rather than rushed or performative. The aim is to give participants clear technical tools while preserving the tenderness and atmosphere of floor based rope.
This workshop is intended for intermediate to advanced students who already have experience with suspension lines, body awareness and communication under load. The class will move slowly and carefully, with space for questions, repetition and adaptation. Participants should arrive with a partner they already feel comfortable tying with, as the material asks for trust, sensitivity and direct communication.
Conor Aphilia (he, they, his)
is a Shibari-focused Sexworker, educator, and the owner of Aphilia Studio in London.
His practice integrates rope as an extension of his broader kink interests, using it to explore nuanced and often challenging emotional and physical states. Regularly working with beginners and those new to the practice, his body-centric and intentional approach is shaped by professional experience, ensuring that each encounter is a dialogue rather than a predetermined experience.
For Conor, Shibari is a tool for physical communication, where aesthetics, compositions, and patterns are guided by the needs of the scene and the individuals involved. His work prioritizes safety, exploration, and the creation of new emotional spaces in which people can navigate their experiences with excitement and care.
Informed by the techniques and aesthetics of Japanese masters, Conor has developed an inclusive style that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds. His years of study have led to a distinctive blend of Western and Eastern influences, further shaped by his background in design. This evolving approach to rope play transcends traditional boundaries, celebrating diversity and fostering deeper connections through sensuality, trust, and artistic expression.
Prerequisites
This workshop is suitable for intermediate to advanced practitioners. Those tying should be confident with single column ties, basic frictions, suspension line handling and at least one suspendable harness. Those being tied should have some experience with semi suspension or partial suspension and feel comfortable communicating clearly while under load.
This is not suitable for absolute beginners. If you are unsure whether the workshop is appropriate for you, please get in touch before booking.
What to bring?
What to Bring
A full rope kit which includes some 9-10m ropes
6-8 Carabiners
Safety shears or a suitable rope cutting tool
Ring or Carabiners.
Safety Shears or suitable rope-cutting tool.
If you like to take notes: a notebook and pen.
We will be practicing on the floor, we have yoga matts, blankets and pillows but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
Comfortable clothes in which you can move freely, tank tops or shorts are ideal, or any yoga/sport clothes.
A bottle of water (leak proof) and some snacks.
A pair of sandals/flip flops to get to the toilet, since they are not directly inside the studio.
Important
Iridescent Studio is a queer led organisation and in our events we do not tolerate racism, discrimination, sexism, homophobia or transphobia.
During the entire workshop we do not allow the use of any mobile or electronic devices to record the content of the workshops.
Please note that if your skills do not meet the requirements for certain workshop exercises, our facilitator may ask you not to participate in those activities for safety reasons. It is your responsibility to ensure your skill level is suitable, and we encourage you to contact us in advance if you have any doubts or concerns.
Event’s door closes 10 min before we start, after this, no entry will be granted.
Please read carefully our Term & Conditions page
Tickets
We want to keep our events accessible to everyone. Through mutual understanding and shared support, our community continues to grow.
Please choose the ticket that best reflects your situation, whether your resources are limited or you are able to support others.Tickets are per couple
Before you purchase this ticket , be sure to have the skills required for all the workshops. Please contact us if you have any doubts.
Solidarity Tickets 275€
Regular tickets 325€
Support us tickets 345€
Please, we kindly ask you to read our terms & conditions page.
Location
The studio is located in Amsterdam west, Doctor Jan van Breemenstraat 1.
You can get here by bike, or from Central Station by Tram 13, the stop is Adm. Helfrichstraat.
If you decide to drive to us, here is a link for a parking space just besides the studio.
In our experience the Mobypark platform gives better rates and has several options in the neighbourhood.
Language:
All our workshops and events are taught/guided in English.
Questions?
We understand that this kind of event can be a bit overwhelming for some, and we are more than willing to help you if you need any support to make your workshop experience nicer. Please do not hesitate to mail us if you have any physical limitations, mental health issues or special needs.
Or if you have any other questionsn regarding this event, do not hesitate to drop us an e-mail, we are more than glad to help!