How To Create A Transparent Gradient Mask with Illustrator

In this tutorial I’ll be demonstrating how you can create a transparent gradient mask with Illustrator using an Opacity Mask. This would be useful if you’re trying to apply a gradient of transparency to an image, an object, or a grouping of objects. The opacity mask is a non-destructive layer that gets applied to a subject. Once applied, black areas of the mask will make the subject transparent, whereas white areas of the mask will leave it opaque. Everything in between — or grayscale — will be partially transparent depending on how light or dark the shade is. Intro song: "In Da Mood" by Combustibles, used with written permission