Artist's story

Ben Nsusha, born in 1947 in Umzumbe, KwaZulu-natal, and currently residing on Dobsonville, Soweto, is a highly acclaimed South African sculputor and painter. With a career spanning over 40 years, he has earned recognition both locally and internationally, exhibiting his work in cities such as New York, Australia, London, and Johannesburg.

Nsusha is known for his meticulous attention to detail and resourcefulness as an artist. His works, characterised by vibrant imagination and adept blending of materials and techniques, are contemplative and unique. Drawing inspiration from his mother’s expertise in a basket weaving, he has developed his own distinctive method of framing artworks and incorporates elements of the Japanese philosophy of “Kintsugi” into his ceramic pieces, where he sews cracks to enhance their form and narrative.

From his father, who had diverse technical skills ranging from bricklaying to carpentry, Nsusha learned the importance of technical precision in his approach to art. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Nsusha deliberately avoids creating “struggle art,” instead option to express his reality, imagination, and vivid dreams through his work.

Nsusha’s contribution to the South African art scene extend beyond his own practice. He served as an art lecturer at various institutions since 1980, mentoring numerous prominent South African artists. He is now retired but continues to inspire through his enduring legacy in the art world.