Spotlight on Our Graduates

Name: Nathan Archambault
Title: Makeup & Hair Artist
Company Name: Freelance
Programs of study: Certificate in Artistic Makeup - Fashion and Beauty and Master Class

Photo credits: Kaven Tremblay

Art has always been a part of Nathan's life since he was a child. The passion he developed for makeup eventually led him to pursue it as a career. He made his mark on the industry from the very beginning. This allowed him to work with giants in the world of makeup; Sephora and Make Up For Ever.

What position do you hold and what are your main responsibilities?

In the fashion industry, I work as a makeup artist and hairstylist. My work consists mainly of doing makeup and hair on models for photo shoots for clothing, jewelry, or cosmetics brands. I also work with artists for the realization of visuals such as: album covers, music videos or gala. I spend a lot of time perfecting my art for the camera. There is nothing better than seeing the final picture!

Describe a typical day in your professional life.

It all starts with research. When I get the information for a job, my first goal is to gather the products needed to create each look. Studies of various products and effects are a big part of the job to stay up-to-date. When the day comes, I work as a team. I interact with the art director, the stylist and the photographer so that my work is a great complement to the group. I then start my work by making sure that the models' faces and hair stand out in the right way. Throughout the day, being on the lookout for touch-ups is as crucial as the preparation itself. These are the last moments where we still have the opportunity to make adjustments to ensure the strength of the final image.

"(…) I was hired by Make Up For Ever as an education and sales specialist and juggled my fashion contracts and training with Sephora stores all across Quebec."

Tell us about your career path.

I started at the age of 14, my client network consisted mainly of teenagers who were graduating or attending the famous prom. I was very proud to already have full days doing my passion, which made me feel like I was already fulfilling my dreams. I then worked at Sephora for a few years, learning a lot about different textures and effects. Later, I was hired by Make Up For Ever as an education and sales specialist and juggled my fashion contracts and training with Sephora stores all across Quebec. I've been self-employed for the past year, and I feel extremely blessed every day to have believed in myself and to have been able to meet incredible artists who have taught me and guided me without restraint.

"At LaSalle College, I learned how to be a professional, which builds inner confidence."

What is your best memory of your time at LaSalle College?

At LaSalle College, I learned how to be a professional, which builds inner confidence. During my time there, I had the opportunity to do makeup for the cover of the LaSalle College Magazine 2017-2018 Edition. I loved the atmosphere so much; the models trying on their looks; the photographer testing some of the backdrops; the manager walking around to make sure everything was going well. As soon as I received the magazine, I knew what I wanted most: to incorporate photography into my daily life.

Behind the scenes during Virginie B's music video shoot

Photo credits: Marc-André Dupaul

Do you have any anecdotes to share?

Following my course at LaSalle, the great Alexandre Deslauriers hired me for the Joseph Ribkoff Fashion Show, one of my most memorable experiences. We were a very professional team, I worked alongside Pargol Tavasolian during the show, a teacher from Lasalle College. Being part of such a talented team gave me a great sense of professional accomplishment. Pargol was so welcoming and treated me immediately as a colleague. She is a true gem in the industry, her students must feel so lucky to have such a passionate and knowledgeable mentor.

"At LaSalle College, I felt a great sense of belonging. They have created an environment that is conducive to creativity while remaining mentored."

Describe your general impression when you started at LaSalle College.

At the College, I felt a great sense of belonging. They have created an environment that is conducive to creativity while remaining mentored. It was the perfect opportunity to absorb as much information as possible, to be colorful and not be afraid to make mistakes. I now realize how lucky I was to be surrounded by such talented and different people. I learned from each person in my classes, teamwork is essential in a program like this.

What surprised you the most when you entered the job market?

One of the most surprising things about this profession is the wide range of possibilities it offers. There are so many different styles of makeup and everyone can shine in their own way. Having so much variety allows every artist to flourish in their chosen field.

What advice would you give to a student currently enrolled in the same program as the one you studied in?

Continual improvement leads to success, wherever and when needed.

What are the qualities necessary to succeed in your field?

Take criticism. Questioning. Knowing how to take risks at the right time.

Who are your inspirational models and why?

My motivation is the final image, so my primary source of inspiration would be certain photographers like Steven Klein, Damon Baker and Alexandre Deslauriers.

Anything to add that might inspire the next generation?

When it comes to critical life fulfillment, passion comes first!

Links to his social media pages:

• Instagram: @nathan.archambo