Leighton Hickman currently works at Dreamworks Animation as a visual development artist. But he also teaches, mentors and is a dab-hand at landscapes. He worked on ‘The Croods’, Dreamworks’ latest animated movie on show. If you visit his website, you’ll see his excellent paintings, which full of rough brush marks yet still feel true to life. You can see the 50’s animation influence in his striking character designs, which are superb. Pop over to his website and have a look at the incredible versatility and top-drawer talent Leighton has on display.

The first thing you’ll notice about Monique Jivram’s illustrations would probably be the striking lines often created by using hand and machine embroidery. She draws on inspiration from nostalgic objects, overheard conversations and her Latin American roots.

“The use of commonplace objects throughout the work prompts a sense of familiarity and recollections. The work taps into a universal visual language and communication of objects through prior experiences.”

Clients include The Big Issue, The National Alzheimer’s Society and Ameilia’s Magazine.

Roxanne Daner is based in Los Angeles, where she works as Lead Designer for Ludlow Kingsley. Her excellent design skills are very apparent, but for me her illustrations are the show-stopper in her arsenal. She has a unique, intelligent retro style. It is versatile enough to be used for all kinds of projects, from children’s books to product skins and editorial purposes to boot.

“I paint astronauts and, sometimes, dinosaurs.”

Scott Listfield’s astronaut explores the present, finding today’s culture, iconic imagery and landscapes along the way. His series of illustrations featuring the astronaut started fittingly, just before 2001. He has exhibited his work all over the US, including Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Miami and Boston.

Spanish illustrator/designer Álvaro Laura has some super work on his website. His creations are bold, full of texture and with interesting subject matter. I really like the way he plays with form, and his crowded scenes are extraordinary.

Deanna creates some really interesting editorial illustrations in a retro style that’s all her own. Her work is often very clever, sending a clear message that’s easy to understand. The illustrated map she created for Beefeater Gin stands out as a really beautiful piece of work and there is a lot of strong illustration to be found on Deanna’s website.

“Her work stems from a love of nature, birds, beards, pens, nice hair, nostalgia, super mario, screen prints, the colour yellow and collecting old stuff usually found in her parents’ attic.”

Deanna’s clients include NBC America, Umbro and The Eden Project. She is currently based in the UK.

Dustin is a designer and illustrator from Texas, USA. He creates all sorts of visuals with a retro theme. The great thing about his work is that he’s a brilliant all-rounder; whether it’s typography, graphic creation, illustration or a good idea, it all comes together so well. He designs t-shirts too, and if you visit his website check out the design section to see loads of great retro label designs.