Jim Dunbar was born on 18 February 1949 in Mission Mambasa, deep in the Ituri rain forest of Democratic Republic of Congo, where his parents were evangelical missionaries. He spent most of his childhood in DRC between mission stations Alambi and Mambasa, with occasional stays in UK and USA.
Jim trained in Drawing and Painting at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee, between 1967-1973; he took some time out of his studies to return to missionary work.
Between 1977 – 1999 Jim taught in various schools in Angus, Scotland as both assistant and Principal Teacher of Art and Design. He retired from teaching and now paints full time.
Jim was elected a member of the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour in 2007. Having previously served as Vice President (East) he was elected President in October 2016 and served for five years until October 2021. In 2013 he was elected an Associate of the Royal Watercolour Society and became a full member in 2015. Jim was elected a member of the Royal Glasgow Institute in 2013. He was elected to the Society of Wood Engravers in October 2023. He was also President of the Scottish Riley Enthusiasts, a classic car club. Designing and building Pre-war Riley “special” sports cars allows Jim to put his skill as a sculptor to good use in metalworking. (www.sre.gb.net),
Jim died on January 4th 2024 after a long illness. He is survived by Laura, and has three children and seven grandchildren.
The Scotsman newspaper published a full obituary on 9th April 2024.
