John Bulloch Souter, also known as Jack, was born in Aberdeen and studied at Gray's School of Art. He became a successful portrait painter, with sitters including Gladys Cooper, Ivor Novello, and Fay Compton. He exhibited at various galleries and institutions, including the Royal Academy. During World War II, he worked in the Censorship Department as a translator and also restored paintings from The Royal Collection at Windsor Castle. In 1926, his painting "The Breakdown" caused controversy and was eventually withdrawn from the Royal Academy. Souter married Christian Grace Reid in 1926 and they were both jazz enthusiasts and regular visitors to the opera. After 26 years of married life in London, they moved back to Aberdeen in 1952 when Souter inherited "Kinnoull" 19, Anderson Drive in the city. Souter was a talented artist who painted a diverse range of subject matter in various styles and mediums

John Bulloch Souter, born in Aberdeen, was a successful portrait painter known for his diverse range of subjects and styles. He served in the Royal Medical Corps during World War I and later became celebrated for his portraits of notable figures from entertainment, academia, and society. Souter's controversial painting "The Breakdown" caused a media storm in 1926 and was eventually withdrawn from the Royal Academy. He married Christian Grace Reid in 1926 and the couple enjoyed jazz music and opera in London before moving back to Aberdeen in 1952. Souter's talent and the diversity of his artwork continue to be recognized almost a century later.