Old Masters — New Rebels
Most founders have to choose.
Strategy consultants who think brilliantly and hand you a deck. Design agencies who make it beautiful but start from whatever brief you give them. AI platforms that move fast and look like everyone else.
We don't make you choose.
The Observatory combines strategic communication with visual identity, integrated, intentional, and built around your specific ambition. We figure out what you're building, what it should say, and how it should look. All of it. Done properly.
Get in touch—
razor-sharp execution."
Executive Producer, Enriched Media Group
Twenty-five years of craft. The sharpest tools in the room. And zero interest in doing it the way everyone else does.
We've worked with Google, NASA, Fortnite, and hundreds of founders who needed to get it right when it mattered most. We use AI the way master craftspeople use new tools, to go further, faster, without losing the thing that makes the work worth doing.
Not a production line. Not a vendor. Creative partners that actually give a damn about your outcome.
Audience Research
Market Insight
Brand Strategy
Content Strategy
Creative Direction
Innovation
Project Roadmapping
Positioning
Campaign Strategy
Outreach
PreMortem
Investor Strategy
Art Direction
Brand Design
Visual Identity Development
Gen-AI Design
Digital & Print Design
Motion Design
2D & 3D Animation
Film & Video
Storyboarding
Copywriting
Pre-Vis & Visualisation
Key Visuals
GenAi
Social Media
3D Animation & CGI
Generative Ai
Film & Motion
Web3
NFT Design & Drops
Pitch Decks Multi-Platform Content
Experiential
Websites
Print & Large Format
“An unstoppable avalanche of creativity—and incredibly
exciting to work with.”
“World class design,
mind-bending visuals,
unstoppable commitment.”
“Rapid creative solutions
and breathtaking visuals”
“Nailed the brief.”
“Phenomenal.”
“Fantastic creative
work, and a pleasure
to work with.”
“F*cking fantastic.”
Ben Hickingbotham
Over 30 years, Ben has established himself as a creative accelerator across the commercial sector, Web3, and independent films. As a producer and IP accelerator, he partners with seasoned executive producers to drive compelling projects forward. His intuitive, forward-thinking approach keeps him at the forefront of innovation.
Sarah Hickingbotham
With expertise in shaping brand narratives for global companies and independent films, she ensures every communication aligns perfectly with the brand’s voice.
Sarah crafts compelling, relatable stories that resonate and engage, making her an invaluable asset in connecting with target audiences.
Phil Clyde-Smith
Embracing innovation, Phil now integrates generative AI into his work, pushing creative boundaries while optimising production. His combination of traditional filmmaking expertise and cutting-edge technology consistently results in impactful, memorable content.
