Meet Our 2023-2024 AWC Fellow: Bryson Nihipali

Visual Communications is thrilled to introduce our 2023-2024 Armed With a Camera Cohort! Meet emerging filmmaker Bryson Nihipali! Bryson is a visual artist born and raised in Los Angeles with a passion for both photography and filmmaking. With ancestral ties to the Hawaiian and Philippine Islands, he draws much inspiration for his photographic work from his family and their rich cultural heritage. He is a current undergraduate studying Communication and Cinematic Arts at USC. As an aspiring filmmaker, he aims to focus on the indigenous diaspora and share his unique perspective with wider audiences. Embracing his diverse background and experiences, Bryson's artistry reflects a deep connection to his roots and a drive to create impactful visual stories.

Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE FILM/MEDIA ARTS
Film is one of, if not the most powerful mediums to express an idea. Our world is shaped by the images we see and the sounds we hear, and because it combines those two aspects it’s the art form that comes closest to a true representation of reality. Growing up, I had a lot of difficulties getting across my ideas, and I like how in film there’s the idea of “show don’t tell”. I don’t have to explain everything, I can just show what I see, what I think, what I feel. With that, I feel like there’s definitely a responsibility to tell the truth. I feel like that’s always what leads me in my creative process—exploring the world around me, and trying to find truth in it and myself.

Q: WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO ON YOUR FREE TIME
Surf, Skate, Bike, Sleep

FAVORITE FILMS
I recently watched The Godfather, and it’s the closest thing I’ve seen to a perfect movie.

FAVORITE TV SHOW
Samurai Jack, The Boondocks, Batman the Animated Series

CURRENT WATCH
The Sopranos and Primal

MUSIC ARTIST ON REPEAT
Recently I’ve been listening to a lot of reggae. Bob Marley, Gregory Isaacs, and Chronixx. One particular song on repeat: Daniel Caesar’s cover of “Waiting in Vain”.

RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATION
The Park’s Finest

UNPOPULAR OPINION
Free Palestine. + Hawaii belongs to Hawaiians.

Q: WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT FOR THIS YEAR’S AWC
I’m excited to see the projects my Armed with a Camera fellows have developed. All of the AWC fellows are super talented and inspire me to elevate my practice.

WHERE TO FIND YOU
@bryson.nihipali

Watch Bryson’s AWC film, Ke Ala, at the 40th VC Film Fest!