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. 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 is 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)
He is married to Laura, and has three children and six grandchildren. He currently lives and works in Carnoustie, Scotland.
Artist's Statement
Throughout his painting career, Jim has concentrated on places, objects and people that have a strong connection to him in some way – family and close friends, collected objects and places where he has lived. The insight gained by having known his subject matter over time is important to him because of the spiritual element it brings to his work.
