Everyday, the Gastown streets are filled with young, artistic professionals. Their faces represent a large part of the character and  life of the Gastown community. With that said, Gastown holds three of the largest fashion and make-up schools in Western Canada – one in particular is John Casablancas Institute of Applied Arts. The GastownBlog team met with a student from JCI, Haley Rawle, and got the inside scope of life in the applied arts industry.

Haley Rawle

Name: Haley Rawle
Age: 22
Hometown: Coquitlam, BC

Where did you just come from?

“I was just at a photo-shoot at Studio 57 in Vancouver. I have a few minutes to do this interview and then I have to head back over there.”

Really? Well I’ll make this interview quick. What do you see yourself doing as a career?

“I really want to start my own studio. I love fashion and photography.”

How has JCI helped you achieve that goal?

“JCI has been so great. As someone who has been been in the top 5 of my program, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some great artists and designers.

As someone as busy as you, What do you like to do on your off-time.

“I like do photo-shoots on my off-time. I also snowboard, roller blade, and like going to art galleries.”

What do you like about Gastown?

“I love all the old brick buildings, its creative, and unique. You definitely need that character if your going to be in a creative field.”

Haley Rawle

Any intention for you to stay in Vancouver?

“Well, Vancouver is up and coming in the international scene. You can be really successful here if you look in the right places. So yeah, I really want to stay here for awhile.”

Why did you choose John Casablanca?

“I heard about the school and the fashion program through a friend. She told me about her experience and it was something that I wanted do.”

Alright then, I know that you have to go back to the studio, so we’re going to let you go. Thanks so much Haley!

Haley Rawle