Bongile Mkhize

Born in Soweto in 1972, Bongile started exploring the realm of fine art at the Funda Community College from 1993 - 1995. In 1999 she attended the Artists’ Proof Studio for a year.

Bongile has completed her Advanced Diploma in Fine Art through the Wits University (2000) and is currently completing her studies on Development through UNISA.

Bongile teaches craft, printmaking and art at schools in and around the Soweto area as an extramural subject.

She has always been fascinated by women and the role they play in society as the educators, mothers and mentors. She is interested in how women fit into the world and in the empowerment of women.

She was raised by her mother, a single parent, who loved sewing. This influence can be seen both in the subject matter of her images and the embroidery element visible in her larger drawings.

Bongile admires the work of Frieda Kahlo, William Kentridge, Kim Berman and Erica Hibbert.

Information courtesy of the artist.