Tusevo Landu

Tusevo Landu (b. 1997, Kinshasa, DRC) began his artistic journey at Artists Proof Studio but ultimately pursued his path as a self-taught painter. His creative practice spans acrylic painting, printmaking, drawing, and mixed media, all driven by his deep interest in exploring the many dimensions of human expression.

Confronting daily realities of injustice and discrimination, Landu turns to culture and the transformative power of art to imagine an alternative to the oppressive world around him. His work resonates with the Afro-futurist movement, viewing art as a powerful force in today’s society. Landu is committed to filling the void often present in how Black life is constructed and perceived, with the goal of restoring a deep sense of pride in Black bodies.

 As a Congolese artist based in South Africa, Landu draws on his experiences to shape his art. He incorporates traditional African masks, often used in Congolese coming-of-age ceremonies, as a symbol of the mysterious nature of his subjects. His work explores the profound impact of cultural rituals on personal identity, linking the ancestral with the contemporary.

 To Landu, art goes beyond mere aesthetics; it becomes a political statement, a form of protest, storytelling, and even a therapeutic process. Through his diverse practice, he encourages viewers to explore the complex interplay of culture, history, and identity, offering new ways to understand the world and the narratives that define it.

 Landu’s art seeks to inspire thought and touch the soul, acting as a catalyst for change and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Currently based in Cape Town, South Africa, he continues to live and work with a vision of creating impactful art that speaks to both past and future generations.