Zulu Heru is a multidisciplinary conceptual artist whose practice is rooted in the transformation of discarded materials into complex, Afrocentric sculptural forms. Based in San Francisco and originally from Richmond, Virginia, Zulu brings a unique confluence of experiences—as an army veteran, engineer, and crane operator—to his artistic production. His work demonstrates a compelling synthesis of technical precision and cultural symbolism, positioning him within a broader tradition of artists who engage with found objects to explore themes of cultural resilience, historical memory, and futuristic utility.
Zulu Heru’s evolution as an artist began long before his relocation to the West Coast. During his tenure as a tank commander in the United States Army, Zulu began experimenting with scrap metal, industrial components, and other found materials—elements that would later become central to his sculptural vocabulary. This formative period revealed a profound creative impulse, ultimately leading him to depart from military service in order to fully commit to his artistic practice. His early works reflect both the material conditions of his environment and a visceral exploration of form, function, and cultural resonance.
A graduate of Howard University with a BFA in Fine Arts, Zulu Heru combines formal artistic training with over a decade of hands-on experience in welding and metal fabrication. His refined technical skill and deep material knowledge enable him to transform discarded metals into evocative sculptural works that challenge conventional narratives and material hierarchies. Heru has collaborated with several of the leading sculptors of his generation, contributing to a dynamic discourse in contemporary sculpture. Committed to expanding the possibilities of artistic practice, he remains dedicated to mentoring emerging artists, encouraging bold creative ambition and the pursuit of socially and materially engaged art-making.
