Week 4_ Gradient Mesh Tool

Introductions to the Gradient Mesh.  
I will be doing a long demonstration to these tools.  But, here are a couple tutorials for you, in case you need to refresh or refer back to these.




In Class Assignment: 
Use this image to create the apple using the mesh tool.   We will be doing much of this together.  

In Class Assignment: Using the gradient Mesh tool,  create an volumetric image of the apple using the gradient mesh tool. 

Use the gradient mesh to create the irregular shape of the coffee cup handle in the following tutorial.

http://design.tutsplus.com/tutorials/working-with-irregular-shapes-in-gradient-mesh-in-adobe-illustrator--vector-22499

Outside Assignment:  Using the Gradient Mesh tool, create a self portrait, based on a photograph.   

If you run into some specific problems, here is a list of tips and tutorials on using the gradient mesh tool in illustrator that might be able to help.

Remember to keep the form simple.  We are making an illustration... like an "anime" version of yourself.    Here are some examples from previous classes.   Notice how the portrait is built up from a background forward.  Use the gradient to give the head the volume.   You can then use gradient mesh to add in features (mouth, nose eyes, etc) and you can build up from there.

http://design.tutsplus.com/articles/22-fun-gradient-mesh-tutorials-in-adobe-illustrator-for-beginners--vector-22544