Driven by a passion for art, Karmakar briefly attended the Government College of Art & Craft and later refined his watercolor and oil techniques under mentors like Kamalaranjan Thakur and Dilip Dasgupta. However, it was artist Nirode Mazumdar who truly transformed his work, teaching him how to break down traditional forms and think deeply about visual philosophy.

Karmakar became famous for his vibrant, bold landscapes and nudes created with intricate textures and sharp lines. His art captures the contrast between urban and rural life, and the chaotic yet orderly forces of nature without focusing on religion. He co-founded the Society of Contemporary Artists and the Calcutta Painters group, winning many top honors like the Lalit Kala Akademi National Award. He passed away in February 2014, leaving behind a rich legacy.