Nsika Mhlongo, a contemporary South African artist, explores the theme of violence and its impact on human experience through introspective works inspired by her own life. Born in 1998 in Richards Bay, South Africa, she obtained her BA in Visual Arts from the Centre for Visual Arts, University of Kwazulu Natal, in 2020. Her artistic journey began after teaching English for four years, when she met mentor Thokozani Mthiyane. Under Mthiyane’s guidance, she interacted with notable artists like Ayana V. Jackson. Mhlongo’s career further developed with brief mentorship from Senzeni Marasela at the Still Art Residency, Ellis House, and collaborations with Thami Jali at Linbro Park Studios, where she facilitated children’s workshops. In 2023, she attended the Meta Foundation’s “Business of Being an Artist” workshop, leading to a group exhibition at August House. After working as a Gallery Assistant at the University of Johannesburg, Mhlongo now practices art full-time in Johannesburg, South Africa.
