Yusuf Arakkal (b. 1945)

Yusuf Arakkal, born in 1945, was one of India’s most powerful modern figurative artists whose practice reflected solitude, human existence, and social injustice. He graduated from Chitrakala Parishath College of Art, Bengaluru, where he developed his distinctive style of textured canvases, earthy tones, and solitary figures.
Arakkal’s work evolved from abstract studies of urban life into deeply humanistic portrayals of poverty and endurance within the modern city. He held over 38 solo exhibitions in India and abroad, including London, New York, and Hong Kong, and received major honors such as the Lalit Kala Akademi Award and Shiromani Kala Puruskar.

The artist lived and worked in Bengaluru, India.