Yusuf Arakkal (1945–2016) was a distinguished Indian artist renowned for his expressionistic and socially engaged art. Born in Chavakkad, Kerala, he lost both parents at a young age and moved to Bengaluru to pursue his passion for painting. He earned a diploma in painting from Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath in 1973 and specialized in graphic printmaking at the National Academy Community Studios, Delhi, in 1980. Arakkal’s works often depict the struggles of marginalized urban populations, employing textured surfaces and somber tones to convey themes of isolation and resilience. His accolades include the Lorenzo De Medici Gold Medal at the Florence International Biennale (2005) and the Karnataka Lalithkala Academy Award (1983). His art has been exhibited globally, with notable solo shows in France, the U.S., and Singapore. Arakkal passed away in Bengaluru in 2016.