RISK [Graffiti Artist]

By: Editor | June 15, 2011 | Ten by Ten

Renowned for pushing the boundaries of graffiti and a unique artistic style — graffiti artist, RISK, has certainly had an impact on the way this art form is perceived, not just in Los Angeles but worldwide. In his early teens, high school walls were his canvas. Known for being part of the crew West Coast Artists, RISK went on to work on various Hollywood movie and music video sets — including videos for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bad Religion, Michael Jackson, and the set of Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. He became the first L.A. artist to have his work painted on subway cars in New York City and has embarked on several tours where he hit on anything from private planes to street signs to Elvis Presley’s limo. Now 27 years and a successful clothing line later, RISK has brought graffiti off the streets and into the gallery.

What do you consider your most marked characteristic? 

My most marked characteristic would be my artistic ability.


What historic event do you find most interesting and why?

This is a hard one to answer because I believe history changes daily, and as I evolve, I discover new things constantly. Most recently, I have been thinking about Native-Americans, for many reasons, though none of them listed here. However, since we are on the subject, it baffles me that when I was younger, I was taught that Christopher Columbus supposedly discovered the Americas. Not only did the Scandinavians find and settle in Northern America years earlier, but Christopher Columbus also stumbled onto it looking for a route to Asia. I would call that far from “discovering” America. Furthermore, did the Native-Americans not know they were already here? I think Columbus Day is a very overrated faux holiday considering it was really a theft that caused the demise of millions of Native-Americans. America is all about freedom, and I have always wondered why this was taught with a positive spin? This is just one example of why I tend to rethink and re-evaluate historic events. 



What natural gift would you most like to possess? 

I would like to be more of a people person. I’m rather reserved. I was more outgoing when I was younger.



What is your present state of mind?

My present state of mind is maturity. As the city officials bear down and condemn all graffiti as bad and or as vandalism, I want to educate people about the different types of graffiti rather than fight back with anti-propaganda. I want to be proactive via the political process and somehow make a positive difference while educating the masses.



So far this year, what is your favorite …

Book: The History Of American Graffiti by Roger Gastman and Caleb Neelon

Film: Charlie Wilson’s War — not new but damn good right now.

Song: Any Led Zeppelin song while I’m painting.

Restaurant: Crab Hut in San Diego

TV show: Swamp People


What cause do you most identify with?

I support Alzheimer’s research, because I lost both grandfathers to this disease. They played a huge part in raising me when I was very young. They were such strong pillars, men I looked up to, and watching them regress in front of me was incredibly difficult. 



What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
To me the lowest depth of misery is losing a loved one. Not being able to provide for my kids, giving up and being lazy, those are up there, too.


Who are your favorite characters in literature?

I would say Tom Sawyer is my favorite character in literature. It must be the combination of painting the fence and being constantly rebellious.


What do you consider your greatest career achievement?

My greatest career achievement is having my art in highly respected museums and being able to support my family through my art.


What do you value most about your friends?

I have the most supportive friends who have always stood by me no matter what. Unwavering support can get you through anything.



 
 

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