⭕️ WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP ⭕️ Expressive Shibari Life Drawing with Watercolors by Alireza Ferdowsi

This workshop combines expressive life drawing with the aesthetics and physical presence of Shibari – the art of rope on the human form.

In the calm and focused atmosphere of the Shibari Studio Berlin, we will draw and paint from a live model pair, presented in Shibari performances that emphasize movement, form, and connection.

• incl. all high-quality materials for your best experience •

Drawing by Alireza Ferdowsi

The focus is on fast, free lines, movement, expression, and emotional depth – not necessarily on erotic depiction or highly accurate anatomy. 

Together, we will explore how watercolor, light, and gesture can express trust, tension, and release within the human form.

What you get:

• During the workshop, Alireza Ferdowsi will give live demo's, showing his complete process from sketch to watercolor.
• Participants will observe closely, then can apply similar techniques in drawing and painting rounds.
• Alireza will circulate to provide individual guidance, feedback, and personal tips for expressive mark-making, composition, and color flow.
  
• Shibari artist Dan Carabas will create two intimate and slow rope performances with Shibari model Dorcara, offering in total six dynamic and expressive poses in ropes for the audience to capture in their drawings.

Topics covered in the workshop:

• Loose gesture drawing and quick studies
• Expression and dynamics in body line
• Abstraction and simplification of form
• Light, shadow, and tonal values in watercolor
• Color harmony and emotional resonance
• Reciprocate the energy of the performance, let it flow through yourself, and translate it into your drawings

The workshop is divided into two sessions with a 30-minute break.

All high-quality materials will be provided for use during the workshop:

• Daniel Smith professional watercolor paints 
• Baohong 100% cotton 300gsm watercolor paper 
• High-quality sketch paper for warm-up studies 
• Pencils, fountain pens, and watercolor brushes

Participants are welcome to bring their own favorite watercolor materials as well. 
Tool and Material recommendations for expressive watercolor work will also be shared.

Setting & Atmosphere:

• The Shibari Studio Berlin offers a safe, respectful, and inclusive space for artistic exploration of the human body and form.
• The workshop takes place in a quiet, focused environment designed to foster creative expression, presence, and mindful observation.
• You will also have some time for tea and to share your work with each other, if you like to.

Drawing by Alireza Ferdowsi

🎟 Tickets

We believe that art and curiosity should never feel exclusive.
That’s why we are offering this workshop for: only 85€ incl. all high-quality materials

Your ticket includes:

• Alireza's hands on individual guidance, feedback, and personal tips for expressive mark-making, composition, and color flow

• Welcoming cups of tea and/or a glass of wine during the break

• The chance to explore and try out various drawing materials, free of charge

• An intimate and inspiring evening surrounded by creativity, body expression, and Shibari aesthetics

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just Shibari-curious, this is the perfect low-barrier entry point to discover, sketch, and connect. No previous experience needed—just bring your openness and creativity.

Limited to 8 spots overall—reserve your spot now!

⏰ Schedule

13:00  -  Arrive
13:15   -  Start of the Workshop
14:00  -  Start Life Drawing Performance 1
14:45  -  Tea break
15:15   -  Start Life Drawing Performance 2
16:00  -  Integration & debrief
17:00  -  End

Please write to us if you are late or want to join later in the evening.

About the Instructors:

Alireza Ferdowsi @alirezaffoto
Expressive sketcher, painter, and watercolor artist based in Berlin.

Alireza’s approach to life drawing centers on emotion, movement, and spontaneity. As he transitions from quick sketches to watercolor, he improvises composition and form directly on paper, creating a vivid sense of rhythm and immediacy. He draws inspiration from live performances and dynamic poses, where the energy of the moment becomes part of the artwork – in contrast to static academic figure drawing.

You can take a look at some of his works on his Instagram. He attends multiple life drawings weekly, collaborates with many artists and performers, and also does event sketching, capturing spontaneous moments in live situations.

Dan Carabas, renowned for his multidisciplinary art project METAMORPHIC SCULPTURES, is an experienced Shibari artist and instructor who has been working with ropes in an aesthetic and expressive manner for over a decade. Based in Berlin, he founded SHIBARI STUDIO BERLIN in 2024, where he began teaching what he describes as "the art of Shibari with intention." This focused practice emphasizes tying one’s partner in an intimate and sensual way, fostering a deep connection and communication through the ropes.

Cancellation Policy

We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and well-prepared environment for every participant. Because our group workshops require significant planning, space coordination, and often have limited spots, we ask that you please honour the following cancellation policy:

Cancellation Deadlines

• 14+ days before the workshop: Full refund minus a €20 administrative fee.

• 7–13 days before: 50% of the workshop fee is refundable.

• Less than 7 days before: No refund, unless your spot can be filled from the waitlist.
  
  

Transfers & Substitutions

• You may transfer your spot to another participant at no additional charge. Please notify us by email at least 24 hours before the event.

• If the workshop has a waiting list, and we can fill your spot, you may be eligible for a partial refund (minus admin fee).
  
  

Non-Attendance / No-Show

• If you do not attend the workshop and have not informed us in advance, no refund or credit will be issued.
  
  

Workshop Cancellation by Us

• In the rare case that we must cancel or reschedule the workshop (e.g., due to illness, venue issues, or insufficient registrations), you will receive a full refund or the option to transfer to a future date.
  
  

How to Cancel or Transfer

• Email: info@shibari-studio.com

• Please include your full name, booking reference (if applicable), and whether you’re requesting a cancellation or transfer.
  
  

Additional Notes

• Refunds are typically processed within 7–10 business days.

• If you’re experiencing illness or a personal emergency, we encourage open communication — we’re happy to work with you where possible.

• By registering for a workshop, you agree to this cancellation policy.