55: Betony Vernon on Spirituality, Sex, Sensuality and the Erotic Body Realm

We are excited to host Betony Vernon for this episode on the Mangu.tv podcast series.

Daring, provocative and boundary-defying, Betony Vernon is an American-born designer, sexual anthropologist and author. Her aesthetic is formed by her explorations in spirituality, sex, sensuality and the erotic body realm. The development of her work is multidisciplinary, spanning sessions of practical teaching and curative sharing. The writing of her book The Boudoir Bible is currently translated into nine languages and the design of sublime objects, jewels, sculptures, furniture, objects, as well as happenings. In 2024 Betony will open the doors to a new experiential space in Italy, situated in an ancient building, restoration and preservation have been priorities for the past two years, most importantly, Betony has taken action in saving a piece of land around, which is building a community to preserve the negative impact of ecocide. Betony believes that to restore the soil is to restore the soul.  

Betony discusses her upbringing in the post-punk 1980s, her interest in philosophy and erotic literature and her life between Italy, Paris and London. She speaks about sexual liberation, and her work with jewellery, erotica and bondage, which was not easily accepted by mainstream outlets. 

Giancarlo and Betony discuss the power of play, and radical trust as a way to transcendence. Betony talks about shibari, bondage, the power of sex, and reasons it’s so feared, as well as her cover shoots for The New York Times and work with sexual liberation and healing trauma.