Lani DeViate
Director & Co-Founder, Studio Kink Sydney (2015–Present)
Sydney Ms Leather 2024
Performer • Organiser • Advocate
She/Her/Femme/Bisexual/Poly
The adventure began in 2006 on one of my first visits to Hellfire, Sydney. There, I met a man known as Mark DV8 – someone I'd heard very good things about, including that he loved shibari. I smiled at him and asked, “Excuse me? If you’re not busy, would you like to tie me?” His answer was: “Hell yeah!” That moment sparked a partnership built on trust, chemistry, and a shared love of Japanese-inspired rope bondage. He’s been tying me ever since.
In the years that followed, Mark and I developed a unique style together, blending traditional shibari techniques with a dynamic, high-energy edge. I became known for my fluid transitions, expressive movement, and the signature aerial play that earned me the nickname Flygirl – a name that’s followed me across performances from Sydney to San Francisco, Tokyo to Vancouver.
In 2015, we co-founded Studio Kink Sydney—not just as a venue, but as a living, breathing community hub. While Mark and others teach, I’m the one behind the scenes keeping everything running. From managing class schedules and liaising with community groups to coordinating our events and special programs, I’m the go-to person making sure it all comes together smoothly. My role is about connection – linking educators, performers, and guests to ensure every experience is empowering, inclusive, and meaningful.
Together with Mark and our co-partner Aleni DeViate, we – the DV8s – live and lead from a place of authenticity. Our long-standing polyamorous family is built on trust, passion, and mutual respect – values we bring to every class, every performance, and every connection we make.
I’ve proudly performed and presented at major kink and fetish events across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Japan – including Toubaku, Japan Fetish Ball, Hellfire, Sensual Ball, and the LA Fetish Ball. Each time, I’m reminded of how powerful shared energy can be. Rope isn’t just about technique – it’s about trust, presence, and the magic that happens when we truly connect.
Beyond the studio, I’ve organised five Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras floats representing Studio Kink and the Sydney Fetish community. In 2024, our “KINK: Unchain Your Future” float was awarded Best Float Design, a testament to the creativity and dedication of our community.
In 2024, I was honoured to be sashed as Sydney Ms. Leather, and I now step into that title as an advocate for inclusion, visibility, and growth in our leather and kink communities. I’ll be representing Australia on the global stage at International Ms. Leather & Bootblack 2025 (IMsLBB) in New Jersey – a moment of deep pride and purpose.
Studio Kink was built on the belief that knowledge is sexy, consent is powerful, and community is everything. That’s still my guiding light, and I’m beyond proud to help others find their path in this beautifully diverse world we call kink.




