MEET ROMAIN BILLAUD, Q&A WITH H+ ROSTER ARTIST

Romain Billaud is a French illustrator and art director, passionate about bold colors, vintage aesthetics, and expressive design. Born in the ’90s, he grew up immersed in the magical world of Disney and American pop culture. Diners, motels, skyscrapers, and neon lights shaped his imagination, fueled by TV shows, comics, and record sleeves.

He draws inspiration from 1980s airbrush art — slightly provocative and unapologetically vibrant — which he reinvents with a modern and narrative-driven approach. Guided by a pop and nostalgic spirit, Romain creates visuals that evoke movement, emotion, and a certain vision of the American dream.

Here's some words he shared with us:

H+: How did you first become interested in pursuing a career as a visual artist?

Romain Billaud: I’ve always been drawn to visuals and creative expression. As a kid, I was constantly drawing, crafting, and inventing imaginary worlds. The real turning point came when I realized how deeply art could move people — trigger an emotion, spark a memory, or simply bring a smile. That’s when I knew I wanted to bring ideas to life through imagery — whether in music, fashion, or culture at large.

H+: What are some influences or inspirations that contribute to your artwork & aesthetics?

Romain Billaud: The airbrush style of the ’80s plays a major role in my work, along with retro American culture, bold pop visuals, and reimagined everyday objects. Music is a huge source of inspiration — it sets the tone for each piece, influencing the color palette, energy, and rhythm. I love mixing nostalgia with a contemporary graphic approach, always with a touch of storytelling.

H+: Given your talents with illustration, typography and design - do you have a favorite medium or part of your creative process? If so, why? 

Romain Billaud: Illustration is definitely my first love. It’s where I feel the most free — where everything begins — and where I can express an idea or emotion with the most impact. But I also have a real soft spot for typography, especially when I’m designing custom typefaces or playing with words. In the end, I always try to combine both in my projects, because I love the visual just as much as the verbal. What I love above all is simply creating — no matter the medium.

H+: How about your dream client, any opportunities to manifest & put into the universe?

Romain Billaud: I’ve been lucky to collaborate with a wide range of brands — in luxury, music, sports, food — and I’m grateful for everyone who’s trusted me. What I love most about this job is the encounter: discovering a new world and adapting my style to fit it. Through my work, I’ve already fulfilled some dreams… but many more are waiting. A few dream collaborations? The Weeknd, Sabrina Carpenter, Dua Lipa, Dom Dolla… the list goes on!

H+: What are 3 words you would use to describe your creative output?

Romain Billaud: Nostalgic. Impactful. Creative.

H+: Do you BELIEVE in Aliens?

Romain Billaud: Absolutely! The universe is far too vast for us to be alone… Plus, it’s way more fun to imagine we might be the characters in someone else’s sci-fi movie.

For more information on Romain's portfolio page!