Contemplation
Ties That Bind series
Shibari - “to tie” Kinbaku dates back to thirteenth century Japan where it was used in Hojo-jutsu, the martial art of restraining captives. The ancient Samurai showed their honor and respect for the status of their prisoners by the way in which they bound them. Kinbaku has evolved into a geometric knot tying art form now known as Shibari, utilizing the pressure points of the body in erotic bondage. For me and my art, Shibari is not so much about the erotic aspect, but more about the symbolism, what it represents. Ask yourself, “What binds you?” We are all bound by something, it will be different for everyone. Whether it is your career, children, spouse, debt, parents, etc..... the knots and bindings represent the ties and connections we have in society along with our vulnerabilities, pleasures, discomforts, responsibilities and strengths.