Mbusi Mfuphi was born in Estcourt and joined Ardmore’s studio in the ‘Berg in 2000, moving to Caversham when the ‘Berg studio closed down in 2009. She was taught to paint by one of Ardmore’s leading painters, Jabu Nene. Pretty and quietly spoken, Mbusi prefers to use delicate floral designs and colours – soft pinks and greens – that reflect her gentle femininity. Her painting is elegant and sophisticated and is executed with pride, love and a sense of her own self-worth. She often works on Somandla Ntshalintshali’s lyrical forms. “Mbusi is a star in the making, and is starting to become one of our more recognised painters,” says Fée Halsted. Mbusi says: “Ardmore changed my life. In my family, no one was working. I’ve started to make my own home and my youngest brother, who followed me to Caversham, has completed his schooling because of me. My parents are proud of me, because of Ardmore.” Mbusi is one of three sisters who work together in the painting studio: Fiko and Nondumiso Mfuphi are also artists. She has four children.