How important are edges?
To create mood, atmosphere and subtlety, a variety of edges are one of the most effective ways to make use of the inherent qualities of watercolour. Ideally the aim is to use both lost and found edges . Soft edges can be used effectively to connect shapes, tone and colour, avoiding the rigid look that can occur when only hard edges are used. The sophistication of Sargent's watercolours illustrate the result of using the medium effectively in this manner. Many others have achieved masterful results in their use of lost and found edges, notably Charles Reid. Three main methods - hard edges are painted on dry paper; lost and found edges are painted on damp paper; and soft controlled edges are painted on moist paper. Do you consider edges when planning a painting? How important do you consider edges in watercolour?
The more I practice painting and drawing, the more I tend to see motives in terms of related shapes. And shapes have edges. Where I before saw a contour line, I can now see a subtle or abrupt change of value as defining the shape. So, in my view, edges are the way to define shapes in a painting and as such one of the most important aspects to consider when painting.