Tom Vattakuzhy

Born in 1967 in Kerala, India, Tom Vattakuzhy completed his BFA in Printmaking from Kala Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, in 1996 and his MFA from the Faculty of Fine Arts, MS University of Baroda, in 1998. He is known for paintings that evoke domestic quietude, memory, and solitude—tracing the emotional contours shaped by migration and the absences it leaves behind. A painter, printmaker, and illustrator, Tom is also recognised for his sensitive illustrations in Malayalam literary publications such as Mathrubhumi and Bhashaposhini, and his work is often lauded for its subtle use of light and atmosphere. His visual language influenced the 2023 film Kaathal–The Core, inspiring its lighting and mood.

He has received several honours, including the AIFACS Award (New Delhi, 1997 and 1998), the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi Award (1997), the National Scholarship from the Ministry of Human Resource Development (1996), and the Haren Das Award from the Academy of Fine Arts, Kolkata (1995).

His recent exhibitions include the solo exhibition Song of the Dusk at Aicon Contemporary, New York (2022), and participation in a group show held at the Russian Academy of Arts, Moscow (2025). He currently lives and works in his hometown, Muvattupuzha, in Kerala.