Creating arrays of shapes

[Guest]

I need to create a very simple pattern in AE - made from overlapping circles on a grid pattern. This can be done with repeater, but this doesn't give me the control I need - I want to be able to control trim paths / scale of each circle with a control gradient.

Is there an array tool in AE, or am I somehow able to convert the repeater to actualy shapes within the layer?

Thanks.

[Guest]

Also I don't have Illustrator 

[Guest]

NM, managed it with ESL3 script