OCAD U remembers faculty member Jim Tiley

Photo of Jim Tiley courtesy of Toronto Star.

The OCAD University community mourns the passing of James Henry (Jim) Tiley on Dec. 6, 2023 at the age of 91. Tiley started teaching at OCAD U in 1961, when it was the Ontario College of Art (OCA).

“Jim was a kind and gentle soul who truly cared about his students and helping them to develop their work,” says Diane Pugen, Associate Professor Emeritus, Drawing & Painting.

REMEMBERING JIM TILEY

James Henry (Jim) Tiley taught at OCAD U for nearly 40 years, starting in 1961 when it was OCA.

He was born on Sept. 22, 1933 and grew up in London, England, and was a very early talent in the visual arts.

He graduated from the Royal College of Art in London and served two years of Mandatory National Service. Tiley then began his career as a commercial artist for a London ad agency, before becoming an educator.

He taught art at the Belmont school, where he met another teacher, Sarah Rackstraw Downes. The two married in 1961, and moved to Canada the same year, when Tiley was hired at OCA.

For the next almost four decades, he taught life drawing, painting and art history in the Experimental Arts program, where he was also chair for many years.

“Jim maintained connections and friendships with many of his former students and colleagues over the years,” says his daughter, Alison Tiley.

“His integrity, social ease and sense of humour made him a great leader and endeared him to many. Teaching at OCAD U was a very important part of his life, which he dedicated himself to, while also being a prolific professional artist and supportive father,” she notes.

He is greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his family: son Mark, daughter Alison, son-in-law Tunu and his three grandchildren: Maya, Safia, and Jesse; and brother-in-law Rackstraw Downes.

OCAD U extends its condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.

Sources
Toronto Star
Alison Tiley