Fiona Staples

 Fiona is a comic book artist primarily known for her work on the comic series Saga with writer Brian K Vaughan. She is also one of my all time favourite artists. Comics are one of my favourite art forms so this should be no surprise except I actually dislike most comic book artists. Broadly speaking I can divide most comic illustrators into two groups: one is an overly cartoony simple style and the other is a weird not quite realistic style (think most modern superhero comics). I find Staples' work a happy medium between something that is overly simple (boring even) and aims for realism in a medium where it is unattainable and just results in a grotesque unnatural look- all this is talking broadly of course.
Staples' work avoids being put into either of these categories by embracing the flatness which is inherent in comics while drawing skillful and detailed images. She does this by holding back on the variety of tones used and leaving her work relatively unrendered.
Linking to the other side of my project I would also say her characters have a strong sense of style which will always make something look visually better.
Another stand out thing about Staples' work that is particularly on show in Saga is just how imaginative she is. Saga is an epic space opera so literally nothing is off limits. The books are literally full of unique creatures and settings even when something normal could do. A simple way to put it is that she is a master of world (universe even) building. This is just as important as skill and style in my opinion when it comes to illustrating comics.

Image sources http://www.geeksofdoom.com/2012/03/12/check-out-this-preview-of-brian-k-vaughans-saga-1/2012-03-10-saga01_04
http://comicsalliance.com/josie-pussycats-life-with-archie-fiona-staples-variant-cover-24/
 

Her blog: http://fionastaples.tumblr.com/
It is mostly filled with sketches and work she likes as well as links to things that concern her like interviews and such.