James Zar (1941-2010) was born in San Pedro, California and and came from a family of hard-working fishermen. The vitality of strong working men set against the background of the eternal sea's enchantment was the influential environment where he learned about life.

Zar's interest in art was encouraged and expanded by his mentor, the late master painter, Keith Finch. Joe Hales and Raymond Escar were influential instructors.

Zar's tribute to Al Davis hangs in Canton, Ohio’s Football Hall of Fame. He participated in many shows including the Port of L.A. Bicentennial Art Show where he won First Place and People's Choice Awards and he was awarded the San Dimas Art Festival's Gold Medal.

Zar was involved with major movie studios where he worked professionally and became friends with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone. Among other celebrities are Frank Sinatra, Jack Palance, Don Rickles and Hal Holbrook, all of whom have his paintings in their private collections.