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

Hi Chelsea, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’ve chosen to pursue an artistic/creative career because ever since I was a child, the arts have been an outlet for me. Whether I was drawing, writing a story, or making a play on the spot as a child; the arts have filled a void.
Simply from indulging in all these outlets and absorbing insight from other artist, actors, and storytellers I have realized I enjoy these passions because I help others fill a void I once wanted to fill for myself.
I love being able to provide an escape and another reality for a time for others just as the entertainment industry has done for me throughout the years to free our minds and utilize them at once.
I always say, “the arts is what replaces the air that is consumed by politics and hate. ”
By transporting my body, mind, and soul to an artistic lifestyle I am able to produce the art of energies and frequencies into a timeless zone, forever feeding the souls of the hungry within the creative community!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
One thing that I do believe sets me apart from others is experiencing the foster system and having to grow up faster than others my age. That has shaped who I am today and how I carry myself throughout this world, being a life learner.
Growing up in the environment I did ( which I’ve touched on in my first interview with Voyage LA!) ; has helped me create and capture the art in that moment that I create. I am most excited for the new beginnings that are to come in my life; following being proud of graduating college this June , I cannot wait to fully have the freedom to focus on my arts and having my own schedule!
To get where I am today professionally, finishing my college career, expanding my arts, and efforts within the invisible illness community ( @invisibleillnessawareness_ ) Honestly has not been easy. Several years ago I was faced with many challenges concerning my mental/ physical health and I had to make a choice. To either wallow in my pain or do my best to crawl out of it. At times it isn’t easy coming to terms with the demons that we face , but once you are able to admit what you are struggling with something you are one step closer to finding peace. These are among the lessons I have learned along the way and the number one lesson I’ve learned is believing that there truly is hope and light on another side,the side we gotta crawl to. The only competition we face is ourselves!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting the area I would start with a good classic hike around LA either Runyon or Hollywood Land below Griffith. I would take them to The Waffle, Sushiya on Sunset, Jumping Java, Stout, Its Pho, and so many more for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert! Some bars I would introduce my friend to would have to be Mamas Shelter or The Cantina, as its atmosphere is so inviting and free. Franklin Ave near UCB is one of my favorite area to hang around, with Hollywood sushi stop and vegan ice cream along with Main Street. When visiting LA I think its important to check out the sights from hikes and trails, and then consume some good wine or sake and amazing local food! lets not forget fun and thriving of energy Venice Beach, one of my favorite places to hang, skate, and paint!

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?
Who I’m shouting out is “Guapruns” @guapruns via IG
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCefN3AWzwQRV3LnEeznt_Ew

I’ve had the opportunity to help with creative design on set ;they are an up and coming group of creatives working together to create music videos , videography, and photoshoots. They help others bring their visions to life and that in itself is very motivating. The energy the team holds is so uplifting, motivating, and grounded!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelseavainio/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-vainio-55a76b20a/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chelsea.vainio.1/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCieYO2f-tZSBVUx_bmjM1YA

Other: https://www.instagram.com/invisibleillnessawareness_/

Image Credits
photos by me, photo in yellow – Diego Fierro

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.