The Aesthetics of Risk

Artists have a tendency to take risks for their passion that can redefine the meaning of aesthetics. Simple decisions like investing money in a new canvas for a mural to letting strangers paint on your body for creative expression, artists are left to ponder over the results of their risks. Musicians like Drake and Madonna have built a reputation for themselves by taking risks in their singing careers. These risks have helped make or break artists in the entertainment industry.

Taking risks can become a form of art for people thriving in culture. Many people have established their artwork based on their creative insights, urging them to move ahead in the face of adversity and uncertainty. However, these decisions do not always turn out to be the best fit for up-and-coming artists. Each day, artists must face their fears to overcome their hurdles and find their footing in a competitive world.       

Here are a few talented artists who have challenged the norms of society by taking calculated risks to progress in their professions.  

Drake

Drake is a Canadian rapper with 8 studio albums. The acclaimed singer lives in Toronto, Canada, and has performed live in front of millions of his fans worldwide. Drake produces his songs based on his personal lifestyle and experiences that have helped him grow as an artist. He has owned several luxury estates, houses, and studio spaces in North America to focus on his music.

His music videos depict the risky life led by Drake. From original tattoos to an expensive taste in fashion and accessories, Drake has paved the path to success in the music industry. He likes to spend his time gambling in casinos to earn money. Drake has bet millions of dollars in casino games over the last few years. Table games like baccarat and roulette are known for attracting musicians and convincing them to bet their money in live sessions to turn a profit.  

In May 2022, Drake raked in $17 million with a single roulette bet. He streamed the roulette match live to draw people’s attention to his wild ways and risky behavior. The online casino, Stake.com, has partnered with Drake to be the ambassador for its brand. According to recent reports, the endorsement deal from Stake.com was worth $100 million a year for Drake.

Apart from rapping, Drake has ventured into Hollywood as an actor. He took a chance and branched out into feature-length films and TV series, taking quite a risk as an artist. Drake has appeared in movies like Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues. Public feuds with fellow artists including DMX and Kendrick Lamar have also made it into the news, tarnishing Drake’s image as a singer among his peers.  

Banksy

Banksy is an English street artist. He has painted awe-inspiring depictions of society on the walls of major cities like London to make a lasting impression on people’s minds. Most of his art is satirical in nature, reflecting on current events. Banksy uses stencils to paint over the walls to remark on the political and social conditions of different countries.

He has remained hidden from the eyes of the public throughout his active years. The graffiti artist from England risks his life to paint on buildings and installations. Banksy protects his identity to reduce the chances of being noticed by the police department and government officials. He has to paint in secret since graffiti in public places is not allowed in most nations. Several works of Banksy have portrayed anti-war and anti-establishment motives, encouraging people to think for themselves.

Art exhibitions are regularly held in London to sell Banksy’s murals. He has also held exhibitions in top global destinations like Los Angeles and Sydney, providing a reliable source for art collectors to purchase his paintings. In 2008, Banksy invited street artists to join him at one of his exhibitions in London to create original artwork.  

Exit Through the Gift Shop is a documentary film directed by Banksy. It is a comedy movie about recording street artists while avoiding mistakes at night. Banksy and his adventures are captured on camera, giving people a realistic perspective of the aesthetics of risks and their rewards. Recently, Banksy was trending in August 2024 after 6 murals of the graffiti artist were discovered in London within 7 days.   

Beyoncé

Beyoncé is an American singer and songwriter. She has released 7 albums including her debut album, Dangerously in Love in 2003. She has sold more than 200 million records and has won 32 Grammy awards. The pop artist took a huge risk in 2024 by releasing Cowboy Carter, a country album for her fans. It has received 11 nominations for different categories at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, making Cowboy Carter one of the most nominated albums in the history of Grammys.

She has made chart-topping songs such as, Crazy in Love, Baby Boy, Single Ladies, and Irreplaceable. Jay Z, Lady Gaga, Post Malone, and Sean Paul, are a few of the international artists that Beyoncé has collaborated with. Beyoncé enjoys taking risks and frequently celebrates her victories. Her voice is loved by music fans in America, Canada, and the rest of the world.