Embracing creativity through film
HVV a.k.a Hayley, artist/songwriter, videographer + aspiring filmmaker. Took my passion for visual storytelling and moved from Ottawa to pursue film production at Vancouver Film School. While exploring my creative interests, I tapped back into music and singing. Working on turning my past & present experiences into short films/visuals/songs to share with others who can relate.
Currently working as a videographer at Granville Room every weekend while working on my own independent projects to advance my career in filmmaking/videography while having music align with it.
IG:@Hayleyvan
What does being a black creative mean to you?
Being a black creative is to be a part of a community that shares a desire to be understood and heard. To be inspired, and be an inspiration for others who may shy away from standing out based on traumatic experiences or stereotypes. Sharing the success we can all achieve by being ourselves and showing what we have to offer. Although I grew up with my mother’s side of the family who were Asian and not Black, I was able to feel accepted by the community and share my unique story and still have a group of people who can understand me and influence my knowledge.
What inspired you to go to film school?
I used to make Youtube short skits, films, and all sorts of wild videos with friends and families. I just always wanted to make something, or tell a story and create something. Being from the family I am from, they are very forward with the “education is mandatory” mindset. Not that I disagree, but I came to my realization that if I was going to go school, it needs to be something I’m passionate about, and can really BENEFIT me, and not just satisfy the people around me. So I dropped out of psychology in university, although that was something I was super interested in, I didn’t have the drive to continue schooling for 5+ years for something that I knew I wouldn’t give my 100% too. I tapped back into my old interests (videography, photography) and then soon discovered VFS and wanted a big change.
Who inspires your work/creative process?
Genuinely my mutuals and creatives who are within my age range either just starting out or are already doing pretty big things for themselves. I get really inspired seeing people I know either from the same place as me, around the same age as me, or come from a similar background thriving in the creative industry. It just goes to show you anyone can succeed if you work hard and grind your passion. Seeing friends of mine take on crazy opportunities, reminds me to keep going and work hard. Also my family is a big inspiration, I want to turn their personal experiences into short films.
Have you encountered any challenges as a film director/creator?
Definitely the shyness of putting content out. Being judged for it not looking the best, maybe not making sense to some people, so I often gatekeep like a lot of my work. I doubt myself a lot with the stuff I make and I think a lot of creators can relate to that. But then, you remember that everyone’s work is unique to them and it doesn’t need to be like everyone else’s. Everyone has their own version of art, and the right audience will appreciate it - and that doesn’t have to be everyone.
Advice for upcoming filmmakers?
Literally just create and have fun with it. If you have an idea, run with it. Create with friends, because you never know what you can make. Brainstorm scripts based on your best and even worst moments in life - personable and relatable scripts are the best stories! Don’t trap yourself in a bubble and shy yourself away from the world. You can’t play with your potential, you’re the only one who can change your life!
