Actofel Ilovu (b. 1984) was born in Ondangwa and currently resides in Windhoek. He graduated from the College of the Arts in 2010 and later earned his higher diploma in visual art and advertising from the University of Namibia in 2016. Ilovu is a key figure in the Namibian art community, contributing as both a curator and an artist, and conceptualizing a variety of collaborative and solo projects. He is particularly known for his innovative smoke paintings on paper, which reflect his socio-political views and are often informed by his personal experiences.

As a child, Ilovu suffered severe burns from a fire, an experience that deeply impacted his sense of identity. He reflects, “Because of the fire that burnt me, I was rejected by many, including myself, while growing up. It wasn’t easy to look different from other kids. As an adult, I have fallen in love with my scars, and I see myself as an art piece created by that fire.” His work continues to explore themes of human experience, self-acceptance, and transformation. In his recent ‘I See…’ series, Ilovu combines linocuts with the motif of the marula nut, continuing his exploration of identity and personal history. You can read more about these works on our blog.

Ilovu held his first solo exhibition, ‘Bring in the Light’, at the Franco Namibian Cultural Centre in 2011. This was followed by ‘Bring in the Shade’ in 2014, also at the same gallery. His most recent solo exhibition, ‘Onlooker’, was presented by StArt Art Gallery and hosted by The Project Room in 2023. His group exhibitions include the ‘Bogenfels Artists’ Retreat’ (2021), as well as ‘African Galleries Now’ (2020). The artist recently exhibited work in ‘Slow Burn’, a group show presented by SMAC Gallery in Stellenbosch (2025).

Collections: Bank Windhoek (Namibia), SME Bank of Namibia, OMDis Town Transform Agency (Oranjemund), Namdeb (Namibia). Private Collections: Namibia, UK