Editing an existing gradient mask

[paulwentrunning]

Is there any way to edit a gradient in a mask after you navigate away? I often add a mask layer to an adjustment layer and use a gradient to define the mask. The problem is that once I leave that layer and come back, I can't modify the gradient. If I reselect the gradient tool, it creates a completely new gradient. I was hoping that this behavior would change in V2, but it appears to be the same. Am I missing something?

Also, why are the mask combine (add, subtract, intersect, xor) only available for live masks. Why can't I do the same with any mask?

[walt.farrell]

Welcome to the Serif Affinity forums, @paulwentrunning.

Gradients are only editable in vector objects, not pixel objects. Once you've applied a gradient to a pixel object, it is immutable. There are ways to mask with vectors, I think, but if you just create a simple mask it's going to be a pixel mask, and any gradient in it won't be editable.

I have seen discussions about using vectors as masks, and about applying gradients to them, but it's not something I've done myself. Here's a search that may give you some reading material, until someone comes along with a more direct answer  

https://forum.affinity.serif.com/index.php?/search/&q=Gradient vector mask&quick=1

I don't know the reason for your question about compound masks.