Naviar started in 2014 as a Tumblr blog and Soundcloud group. My interest in electronic music began a few years earlier, around 2010 when, while still at university, I started releasing music under the moniker Cryxuss on various netlabels.
A few months before Naviar was launched, I was sitting in a coffee shop in Bassano del Grappa and grabbed a book that was next to me. It was a haiku chapbook. Coincidentally, while reading it I was listening to music, and my mind somehow interpreted these two art forms as a unique, multi-sensory experience.
At that time I was struggling with my own creativity. I realised that it was becoming more and more difficult to find the time to make music: life seemed to be pulling me towards more tangible achievements. I wanted to find a way to be creative, consistently.
In haiku poetry, the juxtaposition of two images or ideas and the consequent creation of a gap in the imagery gives the reader the chance to complete the poem with their own interpretation. Could this gap be filled by music, instead of words?
Looking back, it was a very simple idea. But what started in January 2014 as a personal project went on to become a wonderful creative community, and a bridge between two art forms which are much closer than I initially thought. As I’m writing, people from all around the world take part in the Haiku music challenge every day; their music is the creative force behind our radio shows, compilations, podcasts, articles and events.
Naviar is based on the following principles:
Artists who are part of a community make stronger works. Honest feedback from a like-minded creator can be invaluable, and an artist needs the right environment to hone their craft. That’s why Naviar’s aim has always been to develop a genuine, open-minded, worldwide community.
Support the new and the unconventional. This is a place where journeys begin, where artists can experiment freely and all voices are heard.
People need a reason to stay creative. Motivation and consistency are fundamental. With its regular radio shows and compilations, Naviar wants to make sure artists will always find a reason to create something new.
Supporting the members of the community, in any possible way. By releasing their albums, promoting their projects or in any other way the constantly evolving creative industry allows. This is a family of artists from around the world.
Explore uncharted territories with an open mind. This is a great time to be a creator as there are endless possibilities and audiences. Since 2014 Naviar’s evolved and will continue to do so, bearing in mind the principles that’s guided it this far.
Naviar is run by Marco Sebastiano Alessi.
As far as I know, the word “Naviar” doesn’t mean anything. When I thought about starting a music community I wanted to give it a unique name that would mean something to me. So I used an acronym of my mother’s name, Ivana. My passion for music comes from her.
I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us over the years. I hope Naviar will be the positive and creative environment you were looking for, for as long as you need it.