This week-long workshop explored how BDSM-informed frameworks—particularly negotiation, play, and aftercare—can shape more mindful, empathetic modes of artistic collaboration. Grounded in the idea that vulnerability, boundaries, and trust are essential to both kink and creative process, we invited artists to experiment with new ways of relating to themselves and each other through shared making.

Working in pairs, participants were guided through a lightly structured daily rhythm: morning sessions focused on embodied discussion and collective reflection, while afternoons allowed for open-ended creative exploration. Together, we asked:

• How do we negotiate creative power and care?

• What does it mean to reveal yourself through art?

• How do we honour boundaries and curiosity in collaborative work?

• What might “aftercare” look like after a creative encounter?

Each pair began by choosing an object that resonated with them both—often something mundane or obscure—and used this as a shared subject. From there, they selected a medium (or invented one) to explore together. Across the week, the process included:

• Negotiation: co-creating ground rules and sharing needs.

• Play: making with intention, care, and permission to experiment.

• Aftercare: tending to what lingers—emotionally, relationally, artistically.

Participants kept daily journals to track internal shifts, insights, and frictions—deepening their awareness of how it feels to be seen, heard, or misunderstood. We emphasised process over product, though the works-in-progress were shared in a gentle, supportive end of week showing.

The workshop closed with a group conversation about collaboration, vulnerability, and what might be carried forward. A few stayed after for an open dialogue on kink, process, and personal practice.

This was a workshop about art—but also about people. About how we choose to meet one another. About the difference between asking and assuming. About what becomes possible when we feel safe enough to play.

Learn more about Heima here.

Read about 2 participants’ experience here.