I learned to paint in a historical method. First through watercolours and then through oil. Then, when I went to college and to the school of architecture, I took up modern painting.

James Ivory’s quote — “I learned to paint in a historical method. First through watercolours and then through oil. Then, when I went to college and to the school of architecture, I took up modern painting.” — traces the evolution of his artistic development, from traditional techniques to more contemporary approaches. The mention of a historical method suggests that Ivory began his creative journey with a classical, structured education in fine art, rooted in the techniques of the old masters, where learning through watercolours and oil painting was foundational.

Ivory’s transition from traditional art to modern painting coincided with his formal education in college and architecture school, reflecting a broadening of his creative lens. Architecture, often seen as the intersection between art and function, likely influenced his appreciation for form, space, and abstraction, leading him to embrace modernist ideas. This shift represents more than just a change in technique—it’s a move toward experimentation, freedom, and engagement with the artistic currents of the 20th century.

Known primarily as a filmmaker, particularly for his work in the acclaimed Merchant Ivory Productions, Ivory’s foundation in visual arts reveals the depth of his aesthetic sensibility. His background in both painting and architecture helped shape his cinematic style, known for its elegant composition, attention to detail, and richly textured visual storytelling. His quote offers insight into how his early artistic training informed his later work in film, where each frame often feels like a carefully crafted painting.

Ultimately, the quote captures Ivory’s personal and professional evolution as an artist. It emphasizes how education, exposure to different disciplines, and openness to modern movements enriched his creative identity. From the discipline of watercolours and oil to the dynamic forms of modern painting, Ivory’s journey reflects the timeless process of artistic growth through learning, experimentation, and transformation.