About:

Yves Decary is not your typical salon owner. Owner of L’atelier Hair Boutique & Gallery in the Yaletown district in Vancouver, BC, this man has many talents. L’Atelier is a full service studio and gallery where local artists are able to show and sell original art work in a welcoming, edgy and vibrant environment. Clients are able to come in, be pampered by a master stylist team, but also engage with Vancouver’s artistic merit, which is evidently bustling as seen from the variety of work found at the salon. Yves not only styles, but also enjoys painting which has led to multiple live painting performances, numerous sales and an upcoming show at Roam Gallery.

Yves Decary-Interview by Alyssa Laube

How is L’Atelier Hair different from other salons?

At l’Atelier, we consider hair to be an art we are creating with scissors, paint brushes, and color. A new look for client, it is why we are different.

How were you introduced to hair styling and cosmetics?
I have always been interested in and curious about fashion because fashion is an art statement. It’s why I decided to become a hairstylist when I was 18 years old.
Why do you think it’s important that you sell local art at L’Atelier?

Our mirrors are framed like a painting and so, our client is our blank canvas. It also makes us proud to support local artists and artisans in our gallery.

When/how did you transition from selling art to creating it?

I started to paint 8 years ago and learned to express my emotion and state of mind on canvas.

To you, what is the meaning of art?

I think, if you paint with your soul, that is the true meaning of art.

As a man who is involved in both art and hair styling, where does your true passion lie?

I love edgy, raw, and sexy emotion. It is what defines me as an artist.

What do you consider your specialty?

I love to analyze people and emotion that is under the surface.

With so many unique designs and ideas, where do you gather inspiration?

My inspiration always come from my experience in life and the human beings that crossed my path.

How has your culture influenced you as an artist?

Fashion has always been a big influence on my journey of creating art.

You’ve also had a salon in Montreal, but moved to Vancouver. How would you describe that process, in a word?

Circus, because most of the time, life is like a circus!

How have you developed as an artist over the years?

Around 3 years ago, I started to mainly paint with my 3 favorite colors: black, red, and white.

What are you looking forward to most at this year’s Expo?

This year, I am looking forward to being part of the Expo again. I love the team. I’m looking forward to sharing my emotion with Vancouver, as well as the artist crowd and sharing the true meaning of art with the audience.

For more information about L’Atelier or Yves, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/432888750122625/