This is the software publishers description:

An Open Source vector graphics editor, with capabilities similar to Illustrator, Corel Draw, or Xara X, using the W3C standard Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) file format.

Inkscape supports many advanced SVG features (markers, clones, alpha blending, etc.) and great care is taken in designing a streamlined interface.

It is very easy to edit nodes, perform complex path operations, trace bitmaps and much more. We also aim to maintain a thriving user and developer community by using open, community-oriented development.

One of the powerful new features that has been implemented into Inkscape is the ability to edit gradients on canvas. When the gradient tool is selected, the individual stops of the gradient can be selected and manipulated. It is also possible to insert new stops into a gradient on canvas, simply by double clicking the gradient where you require the new stop. Multiple stops can also be selected and manipulated simultaneously.

These new on-canvas gradient editing features vastly improve the speed and ease of editing gradients in Inkscape. For a simple visual example of how these new features work, check out this screencast. For more detailed information about the new gradient features check out the release notes.