Meet Thamsanga Mfuphi
Thamsanga Mfuphi, born in 1998 in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, he is a South African artist whose practice explores hardship, resilience, heritage and hope.
After losing his mother in 2002, he spent 13 years in Zimbabwe before returning to South Africa. He later studied Business Management at the University of Johannesburg and Printmaking at Artist Proof Studio.
His work transforms recycled and found materials - including prison clothing, blankets, hessian sacks, cow dung, acrylic, and charcoal - into works reflecting survival and personal histories. His experience leading creative workshops at Mpumalanga Correctional Services further informs his practice.
Cow dung connects his work to his heritage and childhood, while clothing pegs symbolise perseverance and hope. Through his art, he explores how creativity can transform hardship, open dialogue and inspire a more hopeful future.