Artist, Zinhle Zulu, also known as Zhi Zulu, is taking the stage to revolutionise the art scene in South Africa. With her impeccable illustrations and compelling storytelling abilities, Zulu is shaping a new era of visual arts, one that encourages diverse perspectives and challenges traditional narratives.
From a young age, Zhi Zulu was drawn to the immersive allure of illustrations that accompanied the stories she cherished. Curiosity fuelled her desire to uncover the secret behind the creation of these captivating images, ultimately igniting a passion that would guide her artistic journey. Years later, Zulu decided to wonder in the world of art, embarking o a path of discovery that led to her to study visual communication honing her then skills and fuelling her creativity.
In 2019, the stars aligned and Zhi embarked on a transformative collaboration with David Krut’s workshop (DKW). Alongside printer Roxy Kaczmarek, she birthed her inagural skill screen print, aptly named “Zebra Crossing.” This stunning creation, a symphony of colours and emotions was later unveiled at the illustrious Turbine Art Fair, setting the stage for an extraordinary journey ahead.
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“Zebra Crossing” marked the genesis of “The Curious Five,” a five-part silkscreen series that graced the canvas of time from 2019 to 2022. Each artwork in this visual opus whispered tales of curiosity and enchantment, inviting viewers to step into the world of imagination and contemplation.
The year 2023 arrived, shimmering with newfound creative prospects. With boundless passion, Zhi Zulu joined hands with the talented minds of Chocolate Ink Studio, birthing yet another masterpiece – “JOZI-pocalypse.” This evocative silkscreen print made its grand debut at the celebrated Turbine Art Fair 2023, offering a mesmerising glimpse into the soul of Johannesburg.
Zhi’s academic laurels stand as a testament to her artistic prowess. A Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Visual Communication from the revered Open Window Institute laid the first brick in her illustrious path. Carrying the torch of inspiration, she pursued a Masters of Art in Design at the esteemed University of Johannesburg, refining her craft and embarking on a journey of artistic self-discovery.
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Honors and accolades adorned her artistic journey, with the prestigious Gold-craft Loerie award for illustration adorning her creative crown in 2017. A proud member of Design Indaba’s creative class of 2019, she was celebrated as one of the bright stars illuminating the artistic universe.
At the heart of her artistic endeavors lies her illustration studio, Zuluvisual, a haven where creative visions flourish. Collaborations with distinguished clients such as Absolut Vodka, Levis, Constitution Hill, Wanderland Collective, E-coffee cup, and FlySafair have allowed her brushstrokes to weave narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. A crowning glory awaits her in the recent design of the new South African 20c coin, where her artistry breathes life into a tangible piece of the nation’s heritage.
In Zhi Zulu’s world, each stroke on the canvas tells a story of hope, unity, and the endless possibilities that arise when creativity flows freely. Hers is a symphony of colors, weaving the fabric of a newfound artistic legacy that promises to transcend generations, inviting us all to embrace the beauty of visual arts in South Africa’s soul-stirring narrative.
