Who We Are
About Navolé
A cultural studio at the intersection of art, ecology, and identity
Our Story
Navolé was born from a simple conviction: that the Galápagos Islands are not only a natural wonder, but a cultural one. Inspired by a collective of artists, educators, ecologists and visitors, the studio opened its doors as a space where creative practice and environmental consciousness could exist in genuine dialogue.
The name Navolé comes from the Russian "На воле" — Na vole — meaning freedom. It is the freedom to create without constraint, to move between disciplines, to make work that belongs fully to its place. That spirit of open, unencumbered practice is at the heart of everything we do. Be free and yet be part of the world where it does not matter your location but the way you can see the world.
From our base in the Galapagos, we have hosted artists from across Latin America and beyond, run community programs with local schools and families, and built a residency that has become one of the most distinctive creative retreats in the region.
Our Mission
To cultivate a living cultural practice rooted in the Galápagos — one that honors the past, engages the present, and imagines new futures through art, music, dance, and community.
Freedom
Navolé means freedom — the freedom to create without constraint, to cross disciplines, and to make work that is fully alive to its place and moment.
Rigor
We take creative practice seriously. Our programs are designed for artists who want to do real work, not just be inspired.
Community
We are not a retreat from the world. We are embedded in the Galápagos community and committed to cultural exchange that flows in both directions.
Ecology
The natural world is not our backdrop — it is our collaborator. Environmental awareness is woven into everything we make and teach.
Come Create With Us
Whether you are an artist seeking a residency, a visitor looking for a cultural experience, or a collaborator with an idea — we want to hear from you.