Meet Vitalijs Osipenko: Producer, Screenwriter & Multimedia Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vitalijs Osipenko and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vitalijs, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
The culture. The best thing about our planet to me, the most magical thing is our collective culture and how it evolves. There are so many beautiful, driven people out there who strive to impact the way we think and strive to enrich our culture. I think that’s wonderful. As human beings, we all want to leave some kind of legacy or a trace behind us. It’s in our DNA, it’s organic and natural. Having a desire to make our world a more beautiful place culturally is both unbelievably grounding and noble. So I am inspired by every and any attempt to contribute to our culture. I am inspired by the loudest vocalist in the room who is trying to create a new sound. I am inspired by a simple software engineer quietly sitting in a poorly lit room creating Apps of tomorrow. I am inspired by people like that. People who I have the honor and privilege to call my colleagues and peers.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I think my artistic diversity and versatility are what sets me and what I do apart from others. I am a young Queer artist of European Background who grew up in the United States. That makes me multicultural and multi-disciplined. I am not saying that in a braggadocios way, I am just really proud to be who I am and that was not always the case. I am well versed with a wide range of disciplines, whether it be screenwriting or acting in experimental shorts about social reforms. I never limit myself to one specific genre or field in the industry, I am interested in all forms of self-expression and celebration of creativity! That is perhaps what I am most proud of as well! The fact that I have my fairly wild experimental short screening at this Independent film festival in Toronto this month and simultaneously producing a show and a documentary. As artists we should never limit ourselves or our potential, there is so much we are capable of and so much we could give to the world. It only takes believing in yourself and following your heart. If there is one thing I have learned along the way it’s the following: every experience in life, even really traumatic or bad experience made you who you are. They are part of your story and should be celebrated or embraced because they make you unique. Bear your struggles and challenges really close to your heart because one day they will help you reach the most beautiful place.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Okay, so Los Angeles has so many amazing spots to offer! I’d say definitely check out Urth on Melrose, the beating heart of West Hollywood. Their D’Lox pizza with smoked salmon is to die for (paired beautifully with some English Tea Latte)! If you are an avid hiker like myself definitely go on a little evening hike! Runyon is a good option, but lately, I have been hiking in the mountains of Topanga and Malibu. Tuna Canyon Hike is the best hike in the city in my opinion! The views are insane, it’s pretty secluded and it is hands down the best place in the City of Angels to watch the sunset! If you’re into music definitely check out the Forum as well as Hollywood Palladium! It’s a historic venue from the 20th century in the heart of Hollywood. I saw so many great shows there, Kesha, Mike Shinoda, Melanie Martinez, etc. Melrose Avenue is a must too, the artistic hub of the city. If you are into fashion – go to Melrose. If you want to get an amazing tattoo – go to Melrose. If you just want to meet some really cool like-minded people – go to Melrose. The most amazing thing about LA is the fact that it is always evolving! So my recommendations might actually change next year, you never know!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are definitely a lot of people out there who have been instrumental in making me who I am today. Some of them are really close to me, like my friends and family, both are undeniably my biggest support system. While others are people whom I have never personally been lucky to meet in real life, like my artistic idol Lady Gaga. I have a lot of people to give shoutouts to, even those who have betrayed me in the past or broke my heart. All of those things brought me to where I am today, sitting in Hollywood, being blessed to do what I love, surrounded by some of the most talented and beautiful people in the City of Angels. Shoutout to everyone!

Instagram: thevozone

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitalijs-osipenko-991868112/