WHY WE’RE HERE
We help creatives and purpose-driven brands discover their identity.
Our Inspiration
The black iris is one of the rarest flowers in the world, and is our studio’s inspiration.
Found near excavation sites, the Black Iris blooms after the earth has been removed.
We see the black Iris’ unique habitat as a powerful metaphor for how we help brands and creatives: often, the strongest ideas exist in overlooked and unexpected places, emerging only when given space and careful attention.
Like the black iris, our approach isn’t driven by trying to attract immediate attention. Instead, we discover and nurture ideas. We believe creativity and clarity emerge through thoughtful excavation, careful observation, and patience. This ethos is at the heart of every project we undertake and informs how we approach our work.
Our Purpose
At Studio Black Iris, we partner with brands and creatives whose work has the power to drive meaningful change.
Too often, the most compelling ideas come from those who are overlooked and underrepresented.
Our mission is to help these voices take up space, tell their stories with conviction and reach their full potential.
Our Philosophy
At Studio Black Iris, our philosophy is built on a genuine commitment to our clients. This commitment manifests through rigorous inquiry, attentive and reflective listening, and the belief that people inherently possess the truths and solutions within themselves.
We take a therapeutic and Socratic approach to our work to uncover deeper truths that live beneath the surface and help others better understand what makes them truly unique.
OUR VALUES
Craft
Creative, considered, attentive and always intentional.
We notice details others often overlook.
Depth
We approach our work with integrity, decency, and care. Prioritising authentic, emotionally resonant approaches that build lasting outcomes.
Impact
We strive to deliver real impact.
To create work that is enduring, distinct, and makes a genuine difference.
OUR TEAM
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FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTORKass is a brand and marketing strategist, who for over 15 years has been redefining what brands are capable of.
Whether working across tech, advertising, creative or sustainability sectors, she has done everything from leading multinational campaigns to advising individuals on how to differentiate themselves in complex markets.
She possesses the rare blend of creative strategy, brand positioning and specialised technical skills to ensure ideas never exist in a vacuum.
She has the unique ability to simultaneously visualise how strategies will look, feel and be perceived; then create the exact steps for how to bring it to life.
With steadiness, discernment and care, she’s been a trusted advisor to dozens of leaders, helping them slow down, gain clarity, and make decisions that will communicate what makes them distinct.
Kass’ vision for Studio Black Iris is to help creatives and brands realise their full potential and leave a mark in their sector.
Connect:
kass@studioblackiris.com
www.linkedin.com/in/kassvaldi/
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DIRECTORHugo is an experienced advisor and strategist who specialises in helping individuals and brands better understand who they are, how to position themselves, and how to create real impact.
Over the past decade, he has held senior roles in external affairs, policy, and commercial strategy, with career highlights including leading national advocacy campaigns such as securing subsidised rapid antigen tests during COVID-19, leading state election and brand campaigns for peak bodies, as well as influencing reform in the creative, sustainability, and logistics sectors.
Alongside this, Hugo is a seasoned advisor who has guided dozens of leaders and founders position and differentiate themselves.
At Studio Black Iris, Hugo leans on his extensive experience to develop approaches that empower, build confidence, and help mobilise ideas.
Known for approaching every engagement with care, empathy, and decency, Hugo is driven by a desire to help make a difference.
Connect
hugo@studioblackiris.com
www.linkedin.com/in/hugo-twopeny