Overview

Kelly Graval, more commonly known as RISK, is a multi-talented fine artist, graffiti artist, and illustrator based out of L.A. RISK has been an integral part of the Los Angeles art community for over three decades, solidifying his place in history as a world-renowned graffiti legend.

 

Gravel, born in 1967, was raised in Louisiana for several years before moving with his family to Los Angeles in 1983. During summer break from high school in 1987, RISK hitchhiked to New York to paint Subway trains and ultimately became the first person to paint freight cars on the West Coast because of that. RISK graduated from USC School of Fine Arts, despite being kicked out for painting a mural on the roof of the Fine Arts Department building.

 

As RISK gained notoriety throughout the Los Angeles art community, it didn't take long for him to become a sought-after artist for many Hollywood personalities. His artwork has made appearances in music videos featuring a diverse range of artists, from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Guns and Roses, Ice Cube and even the iconic Michael Jackson.

 

RISK has also participated in major music festivals such as Coachella and events like the MTV Music Awards, the Sunset Strip Music Festival, and his high-profile collaboration with Aerosmith. In addition, to his extensive art career, RISK helped pioneer streetwear with his iconic Third Rail Streetwear line. The company spanned 18 years until RISK sold it to focus on his family. Today, RISK runs a compound of studios on his property ranging from a gallery and studio space to a print shop and digital media room.

Works