I was approached by Fast Company to do an illustration to accompany an article in their magazine about developing cities and how old areas are being revived with new technology, transportation and parks. The illustration required showing a before/after scenario, and I felt that it would be best suited to a style that I had been developing.
-Hylton Warburton

I had worked on a similar style for an art-print I had made for an exhibition, which also dealt with a before vs. after concept. This style and concept suited the article quite well. Fast Company also
supplied me with a lot of reference to the style of buildings and cities to draw inspiration from.

This illustration was a very collaborative process. I worked closely with the art director from Fast Company, working from reference to rough scamps to the final artwork. The final illustration was executed in two stages and styles. The first stage was the building of the 'old' cities, using flat shapes and gradients. Then the second stage was applying the 'new' layer over the old in a monoline style. The line-work layer creates some depth by showing the 'new' without losing
the detail of the 'old' behind it.

-Hylton Warburton

I don't really have one specific style that I work in. My style changes from job to job according to what the project needs. Using only one style across all my work would not only be limiting, but also
very boring. I am just as passionate about clean and slick design as I am about finely detailed and crafted illustration and my style varies quite widely. I do however try to maintain a certain 'flavour' to my work that links it all in some way.

My inspirations also vary quite widely. I am a huge fan of sci-fi and animated movies. I am particularly inspired by stop-motion animation and the craft involved in it. I love anything that sparks the imagination. I also collect children's books and I am hoping to illustrate and possibly even write some of my own. South Africa also has a thriving art and design scene. We have many talented and diverse people here to draw inspiration from.
-Hylton Warburton

Don't be afraid to craft your illustrations. Consider how light, texture and illustrative detail can enhance the mood and atmosphere. Don't shy away from spending the extra time to add this kind of
detail. Many illustrators try to get by without putting a lot of effort into their work. Illustration with a well-crafted concept and detailed execution is more likely to resonate with viewer, whether
they are conscious of it or not. These are the attributes provide context. Working in this way is what separates good illustration from the rest. If you put love into your work, that's what you'll get out.

-Hylton Warburton

About Hylton Warburton

Hylton Warburton is a graphic designer and illustrator living in Durban, South Africa. He has been working in the industry for 9 years, working for clients such as Fast Company, Jamie Magazine, Telkom, Nike, Kids Footlocker, Russian Bear, The Space and the Sunday Times, to name a few. He has also took part in the local and international exhibitions showing personal artwork. See more of his work at Behance or his website.