Welcome to the fifth installment of CRAVE Culture, a curated quarterly newsletter in which we explore individuals in culture who inspire us.
Realized in passionate creativity and captivating forms of beauty, discover where intimacy meets self-expression.
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ART OF EXPRESSION
Sacred Birth by Alina Gross
@alina.gross
"The experience of giving birth has forever changed my photographic work.
Since then, I carry a double perspective within me: that of the observer and that of the one who has lived it. The female womb – this origin of life – holds a profound meaning for me, one that continues to unfold with every birth I witness.
Through the lens of my camera, I approach this space with deep reverence. I am not seeking spectacular images. I seek truth. I seek the moment when something primal reveals itself – an opening, a surrender, a force that defies words.
I am fascinated by working with symbols of fertility – plants, fruits, eggs. I find myself staging birth again and again in new ways. This place is magical to me, mysterious – and it will never cease to inspire me.
My gaze is tender, respectful, clear. I do not photograph to show – I photograph to honor."
— Alina Gross
ART OF PLEASURE
Web Shibari by Hajime Kinoko
Work by Hajime Kinoko @hajime_shibari
Kinoko, the artist behind Web Shibari, is a Japanese Shibari master, visual artist, and photographer celebrated for his immersive installations that merge traditional rope techniques with contemporary design. His work transforms rope bondage into a bold, modern form of erotic art, blending sensual tension with striking visual composition.
With an innovative use of space, Kinoko’s performances and installations have earned widespread acclaim for reimagining Shibari as both intimate expression and high art. In addition to his live shows, he creates evocative photographic and video works, often overseeing the tying, photography, and direction himself.
Kinoko’s influence extends far beyond Japan. He has led workshops in more than 20 cities around the world, including Paris, London, and Munich, establishing himself as a leading figure in the global Shibari movement and a cultural ambassador for this uniquely Japanese art form.
SELF-EXPRESSION
Style According to Law Roach
Post by CRAVE @lovecrave
VESPER IRL
A Vesper Mini Story
@monb0n
CRAVE COLLABORATION
Let me ride and hold me down.
@corpsdart
INTIMACY TIP
Sexual Fantasies
@lovecrave
Sharing your sexual fantasies can feel vulnerable, but the key is balancing honesty with compassion. It’s normal to worry that your desires might seem surprising or unconventional, but real intimacy thrives on openness and mutual respect.
CRAVE COLLABORATION
Celebrating Pride Month
Video by @someshortstory for CRAVE
In celebration of Pride month, uncover the roots of San Francisco’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, shaped, in part, by unexpected military policies. Dive into the rich, complex history of the city CRAVE proudly calls home.
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