Adobe Illustrator's "Gradient Mesh" Tool
If you have never used an airbrush, you will probably be way ahead of the game when approaching Illustrator's "Gradient Mesh" tool for the first time. I have found it to be one of the most frustratingly time consuming and counterintuitive computer drawing tools. This is especially true when compared to Photoshop's "Paintbrush" tool, which is very similar to an actual airbrush in its operation and use. Some intrepid artists however, seem to take to Illustrator's Gradient tool quite well. Yukio Miyamoto is a perfect example of someone who was not deterred by the extra effort required.
Yukio Miyamoto
Yukio has been working with Adobe Illustrator since its creation, and it shows in his work. Using a combination of Blends, Gradients and the Gradient Mesh tool, Yukio achieves a stunning level of detail and finesse in his execution of reflective surfaces.
Illustration of French Horn © - by Yukio Miyamoto
According to Sharon Steuer in her book "Adobe Illustrator CS WOW!
", Yukio starts by tracing over photographic reference placed in a "template" layer. Using the pen tool, he creates solid shapes to delineate pronounced reflections or objects and then fills each of these shapes with some variation of gradients or blends. The end result is truly amazing. The two examples of his work below, show his illustrations in "Outline" Mode and final "Preview" mode.
Illustration of Leica Camera © - by Yukio Miyamoto
Illustration of Nagra Recorder © - by Yukio Miyamoto
Illustration of Outboard Motor © - by Yukio Miyamoto
Yukio has published an Adobe Illustrator how-to book "The Adobe Illustrator Super Guide" (Peachpit Press) but sadly, it is only available in Japanese at this time.
Illustration of Sports Car © - by Yukio Miyamoto
Illustration of Motorcycle © - by Yukio Miyamoto
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