Pauline Massimo’s Gender-Neutral Shibari: Redefining Power, Healing, and Equality in Rope Art

Being gender neutral, Barcelona based shibari artist, performer & educator, Pauline Massimo, does not think they have a gender or the need to define their pronouns. However, they do not mind being referred to by gender neutral pronouns such as they/them. This political statement is reflected in their shibari practice—the Japanese art of knot tying the body for mental, physical and sexual benefits. Historically, the art practice has been dominated by male artists (riggers) who tied female models, treating them as if they were objects. 

In a patriarchal society, many other art forms have shared such histories. The western art history canons, which dominates art history discourse globally, have been shaped around figures who are cis-white men. The norm has been that masculine peoples would perform the duty of the artist, they would be the do-ers, while the feminine were considered subjects, they were enacted upon and objectified. However, in Massimo’s shibari practice, gender roles are being annulled. People from all gender backgrounds can be both the rigger and model. This is why the shibari practice by Pauline Massimo is relevant to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Gender Equality.

Massimo also teaches self-tying, a form of shibari where the rigger and the model are the same person, performing actions onto themselves. Self-tying highlights how shibari can be used for self-exploration, to help individuals grow relationships with themselves. Studies have shown that the regular practice of shibari can help bring out subconscious realities so that they can be expressed and healed consciously. Another key aspect of Massimo’s practice is also their attention to the health and safety aspect of shibari. When teaching their classes, they will make sure that participants understand the safety risks that comes with tied anatomy, this includes the risk of injuries and accidents so that they can work together to prevent them.

Pauline Massimo's gender-neutral approach to shibari challenges traditional gender norms and disrupts the objectification often associated with the art form's historical practice. By allowing people of all genders to take on both roles of rigger and model, Massimo redefines power dynamics in shibari, making the practice more inclusive and transformative. Their focus on self-tying also promotes self-exploration and personal growth, while their emphasis on safety demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of participants. Through this inclusive and mindful approach, Massimo's work fosters a shibari space for empowerment and healing of all individuals.

Find out more about shibari and other initiatives by Pauline Massimo on their website www.paulinemassimo.com or Instagram @pauline.massimo.