Zinhle Zulu, known by her artist name Zhi Zulu, is a South African illustrator who is making waves in the art world with her impeccable skills and compelling storytelling abilities. Through her illustrations, Zulu is revolutionizing the art scene in South Africa, encouraging diverse perspectives and challenging traditional narratives.
From a young age, Zhi Zulu was captivated by the immersive allure of illustrations that accompanied the stories she cherished. This curiosity fueled her desire to uncover the secrets behind the creation of these captivating images, ultimately igniting a passion that would guide her artistic journey. Years later, Zulu decided to delve into the world of art, embarking on a path of discovery that led her to study visual communication, honing her skills and fueling her creativity.
In Zhi Zulu’s world, every stroke on the canvas tells a story of hope, unity, and the endless possibilities that arise when creativity flows freely. Her artwork is a symphony of colors, weaving the fabric of a newfound artistic legacy that promises to transcend generations. Through her illustrations, Zulu invites us all to embrace the beauty of visual arts and immerse ourselves in South Africa’s soul-stirring narrative.
Zinhle Zulu, in her 20s, is not only an illustrator but also a lecturer and cultural visual storyteller based in Johannesburg. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Visual Communication at the Open Window Institute and a Masters of Art in Design at the University of Johannesburg. In 2017, she won the Gold-craft Loerie award for illustration and was part of Design Indaba’s creative class of 2019. Zulu has participated in various notable exhibitions, including the Turbine Art Fair, represented by David Krut Projects. She also represented South Africa at the Semerang International Illustration Festival. Additionally, Zulu runs an illustration studio called Zuluvisual, collaborating with various clients such as Absolut Vodka, Levis, Constitution Hill, Wanderland Collective, E-coffee cup, and FlySafair. Most recently, Zulu designed the new South African 20c coin, showcasing her talent and influence.
Zulu is particularly interested in representation in South Africa’s newly democratic society and how it can be interpreted through illustration. As a visual communicator, she believes it is crucial for young South African creatives to spearhead the exploration of new ways to portray Africa. Her work often incorporates African culture, addressing important issues such as religion, politics, ancestral beliefs, colorism, and racial discrimination.
Johannesburg-based illustrator Zinhle Zulu has already achieved significant recognition, winning the Craft Gold Loerie award in the student category for her zine, “The Holy Hustle.” Her illustrations focused on the intersection of religion and the politics of money, showcasing her ability to tackle complex themes with creativity and depth.
Zhi Zulu’s dedication to her craft and her commitment to pushing boundaries in the art world make her a true trailblazer. Through her illustrations, she is reshaping the visual arts landscape in South Africa, inspiring others to embrace their creativity and tell their own stories. Zulu’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of art and its ability to ignite change and foster unity.
