Ep231: Face Rope and Human Gongs - An Interview with Marcos Mangani

Marcos Mangani has been practising rope bondage for more than seven years. During that time, he has developed a conscious, quiet approach to rope and a distinctive style of face bondage. By creating spaces in which people can trust and surrender, he invites them to explore their bodies, emotions and intentions in new ways. Marcos has taught in queer and rope spaces including Tension in Montreal, Temple in New York, Iridescent Studio in Amsterdam and Anatomie in London. He currently offers regular classes and private sessions at his studio, KOR Berlin. In this episode, Marcos discusses: • Why he loves rope and the depth of what it has helped him discover about himself • How his natural sensitivity supports his work as a rope top, particularly when creating safety and comfort for clients • The relationship between his background in visual art and his rope practice • Balancing rope with his art, avoiding burnout and seeking inspiration beyond the rope community • How- and why - he turns people into “human gongs” • Identity, microbondage and the origins of his interest in face rope • Why a photograph cannot show the skill required to create face bondage safely • The qualities that may make face rope suitable - or unsuitable - for particular bottoms and tops • Risks and safety considerations when working with the face • Practical advice for bottoms who are curious about trying face rope • The unexpected comparison bottoms often make after experiencing his face rope • His favourite face-rope creation: an intricate design resembling a horse