http://www.microsoft.com/products/expression/
Vector drawing programs aren’t known for being free. Microsoft acquired Creature House, makers of Expression, in 2003. The latest version, which is billed as a Beta, is available for download simply by completing a short survey. Expression includes tools for creating illustrations and animations for either print or Web mediums. The palate of tools is reminiscent of Adobe Illustrator, with more emphasis on freehand drawing. A tablet would probably work well for interfacing with the application, making it easier to translate drawing skills to the screen. Tools include dynamic lifting and scraping, reflection mapping, fringe texturing, anchored strokes, and effect lines for simulating motion on still pages. If you are a budding artist, this app is a must download.
