The META Foundation (@meta.foundation), in partnership with End Street Studios (@endstreetstudios) and August House, is proud to announce Mbali Zulu (@mbalizuluart) as the recipient of the 2025 Female Artist Studio Exchange.

Born in 1988 in Gauteng, Zulu is an emerging contemporary artist whose work explores themes of identity, representation, and lived experiences. She was first introduced to fine art in Kwa-Thema, Springs, in 2009 and began practicing professionally in 2021. Working primarily with acrylic paint and embroidery on canvas, she creates pieces that weave together personal and collective narratives.

Zulu is the recipient of PESP 4 (2024) at the National Museum in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Deeply inspired by the realities of queer life in South Africa, she seeks to amplify untold stories through her art. She and her wife made history as the first queer couple to marry within the Zion church, a milestone she believes is under documented. Through her work, Zulu strives to foster visibility, spark dialogue, and inspire future generations to embrace authenticity and inclusivity.

Join Mbali at End Street Studios here at August House.