Using the Gradient Mesh tool in Illustrator

Most people are familiar with gradients, the smooth transition from one color to another. But the gradient mesh allows you to draw gradients along contoured paths with incredible precision! Last summer I went hiking in Colorado, along a trail known as The Crags (near Colorado Springs), because of the toothy nature of the rock spires. Along the trail I saw this beautiful wild Columbine, and used the gradient mesh in Illustrator to draw it. Voila!