Dullah, born in Solo in 1919, emerged as a prominent figure in Indonesian art, distinguished by his unique naturalistic style. A pupil of Affandi and Sudjojono, Dullah developed his distinct approach to painting, specializing in landscapes and portraits. His significant role as a founder of the HBS - Surakarta Cultural Community in 1950 underscores his commitment to fostering cultural expression. In 1956, he took on the editorial role for the book "Former President Soekarno’s Private Collection of Indonesian Art" (Volumes I & II), showcasing his involvement with President Soekarno.

A close confidant of Soekarno, Dullah was entrusted with caring for the President’s private art collection and appointed as the curator of the state painting collections. His dedication to preserving Indonesia's artistic heritage continued with the establishment of his museum, now a cultural landmark.

Dullah stands as a pioneer of Indonesian realism, initially wielding a brush at the age of 16. Renowned for portraying Indonesia's guerrillas during the struggle for independence against Dutch colonial forces in the late 1940s, he is celebrated as a revolutionary period painter. Collaborating with influential figures like Sudjojono and Affandi, Dullah actively participated in Indonesia's independence movement, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of the nation's history. He died in 1996.