Leonardo Santamaria is a first-generation Filipino-American freelance-illustrator. He is an honoree of a Gold Medal from the Society of Illustrators and a Silver Medal from Spectrum Fantastic Art. In addition, ADC, American Illustration, and Communication Arts has recognized his illustrations. The work has been published in varying applications: from editorial pieces for The New York Times' Disability Series, to covers for NPR's Invisibilia podcast, and to ad campaigns for Vanguard and The New Yorker. He's also contributed to motion projects with the animation studio Buck. In 2017, he graduated with Distinction from ArtCenter College of Design. As his career gained momentum, he assisted and learned from established artists and illustrators like Brian Rea, James Jean, Josh Cochran, and Jason Holley. In 2020, he was a finalist for Young Guns. He currently lives and works in South Pasadena, California.