our story
From the shores of the Caribbean to the valleys of Caracas, our journey as a creative duo began. As Miguel explored the world of architecture and art, and Gabby pursued her passion for graphic design and photography, we found ourselves immersed in a vibrant cultural scene. Curating exhibitions, collaborating within artist collectives, and participating in major art festivals and exhibitions became integral parts of our lives.
Our path led us to the city of Austin, Texas, where we absorbed boundless inspiration before embarking on our next adventure: settling in the Northern Beaches of Sydney.
Driven by our shared love for arts and promoting culture, we founded Kayapa in 2013 aiming to illuminate the unique stories of artists, creative businesses and cultural organisations in our coastal community. At Kayapa, we embody a collaborative spirit inspired by the traditional Venezuelan indigenous practice of 'Cayapa,' uniting us towards shared goals and endless possibilities.
Our story is also closely tied to our active participation in initiatives like La Crème Creative Inc. and Brookvale Arts District (BAD), showcasing our passion for shaping artistic narratives and fostering fresh perspectives in the creative world.
Miguel Gonzalez, also known as M-Lon, serves as the Creative Director at Kayapa. His experience as a visual artist and illustrator enhances his approach to creative storytelling, collaborating closely with Gabby to craft authentic photographic narratives. Together, they engage with their subjects to ensure their true essence is captured. As a co-founder of La Crème Creative Inc. and Brookvale Arts District (BAD), Miguel is deeply invested in the arts community. His background as an architect, along with over 17 years of experience curating exhibitions across Caracas, Miami, and Sydney, allows him to play a pivotal role in shaping the visual arts scene, demonstrating his commitment to fostering creative expression and connection.
Gabriela Villalba, Kayapa's Lead Photographer, brings stories to vivid life. Through documentary portraiture, Gabby captures the essence of cultural shapers and innovators, standing at the center of the art scene that defines our time. Gabby's vision, fuelled by her extensive background of nearly 20 years working as an art director in creative agencies in Caracas, brings a unique perspective to her work. Outside Kayapa, Gabby’s art transcends conventional photography, embracing alternative techniques and concepts that challenge her audience. She is also a co-founder at La Crème Creative Inc and Brookvale Arts District (BAD).