Hi, I’m Richie Disaster (or Richard Davies if we’re being formal).
I’m a Scottish artist, creative consultant, and brand builder with over a decade of experience transforming bold ideas into unforgettable work. From streetwear to storytelling, hospitality to tech, I’ve helped shape brands, grow communities, and design moments that stick—often quite literally, as hundreds of people have tattoos of my work.

I’m best known as the founder and creative force behind Abandon Ship Apparel—a brand that started with £300 and grew into a £1.2 million business in just three years. We built more than just clothes; we built a movement. After weathering the storm of liquidation in 2015, I relaunched the brand from the ground up, reshaping it into a sustainable, community-led business defined by transparency, creativity, and heart. I introduced everything from subscription models and cut-and-sew collections to preorders and immersive pop-up shops—pushing the boundaries of what a UK indie apparel brand could be. I stepped away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy I’m proud of, and continue my journey through Disaster Inc., a creative studio and apparel project that reflects everything I’ve learned (and unlearned) over the years.

But my work doesn’t stop with clothing. I was also the Creative Director behind Abandon Ship Bars, developing immersive brand-led hospitality experiences across Dundee, Glasgow, and London. I wasn’t behind the bar pulling pints—but I designed everything else: the murals, menus, merch, events, and brand environment that made each space unforgettable. I’ve also helped shape the barbering world through Hard Grind, a unique blend of coffee, retail, and award-winning cuts—and later opened The Last Rodeo, a dive-bar-meets-speakeasy margarita spot that captured the same high-impact creative energy.

More recently, I’ve brought my experience into the tech space, working with companies like Ceros and MarkUp on brand positioning, creative strategy, live events, and content that inspires teams and audiences alike.

As an artist, I’ve created hundreds of pieces each year since 2016—ranging from digital art, murals, logos, and merchandise to full brand identities and packaging. My work has been featured by the likes of Pabst Blue Ribbon, Jägermeister, Sailor Jerry, and others, with my mural work seen on walls around the world.

Highlights along the way include:

• Designing and publishing a full tarot deck and companion guide.

• Releasing a cookbook and a photo book documenting tattoos of my slogan “Not Everything Sucks.”

• Speaking at events hosted by Google, Shopify, and others.

• Leading national campaigns about entrepreneurship and mental health.

• Collaborating with charities to raise funds and awareness through art and apparel.

I’m passionate about building things that matter—projects with soul, energy, and purpose. Whether you're a startup in need of a visual identity, an established brand looking for fresh direction, or someone ready to turn a bold idea into something unforgettable—I’d love to collaborate.

Let’s create something incredible (and maybe just a little chaotic) together.