Interview Series: Roni Zulu
The Renaissance Man and poly-artist opens up.
This month, we’re catching up with the one and only Roni Zulu—an artist, a true Renaissance Man, and someone who never ceases to amaze me with his presence and generosity.
The first time I crossed paths with Roni was in a massive room filled with thousands of people. But the moment he walked in, it was like a magnet pulling everyone toward him. From a floor above, I watched as people gravitated to him, and I thought, “Who is this guy?” So, I decided to find out. A simple “Hi” was all it took, and to my surprise, Roni spent the next 15 minutes chatting with me like we were old friends, even though it seemed like everyone else in the room wanted his attention. It was such a unique experience—this guy, who everyone was drawn to, was genuinely interested in me. That moment marked the start of a lasting friendship.
Over the years, I’ve heard some incredible stories from Roni, and I knew I had to share some of his unbelievable experiences with “The Delivery Man” readers. It’s not every day you get to hear insights from someone so enlightened. What’s fascinating about Roni is how he has steadily evolved into this cultural icon—a process that didn’t happen overnight. And that’s the key takeaway here. You won’t become Roni Zulu overnight, but with his insights, you just might begin your own journey toward becoming one of the most interesting people in the world.
The Delivery Man (DM): What’s your earliest memory of feeling creatively inspired?
Roni Zulu (RZ): At a very early age my mother knew I liked art and bought me many coloring books. One day she was cleaning out my bedroom closet and found a very large stack of coloring books untouched. She asked, “Why haven’t you colored these pictures?” I replied, “Someone already drew pictures on these pages, I want to draw my own pictures.”
From that point on she gave me reams of blank paper and crayons which made me very happy.
DM: Were you the kid who was always drawing or making things? What were your favorite projects as a child?
RZ: I was always drawing on everything. My teachers were taken aback when my math homework had pictures drawn on any blank part of the page. Many math equations included monsters, bats and dragons attached to them. I had to learn that drawing on the walls of our home was not acceptable, even though I thought it was cool that Leonardo da Vinci did that!
As a child I enjoyed the holidays because my mother would hang drawings I had done of Santa, the Easter Bunny, Jack-o-Lanterns, pilgrims and turkeys, etc. around the house.
DM: What role did your family or community play in shaping your passion for art and expression?
RZ: My family was void of art and music. There was never music or art in our home except for what I did. My parents did not understand art, but my mother was happy there was something that occupied the majority of my time and kept me out of trouble.
DM: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in art and tattooing?
RZ: My 4th grade teacher showed me a book that was so big it took both of my small hands lift it.
I was mesmerized by its contents and carried it around with me everywhere; it became my bible. It was the complete works of Michelangelo. I knew I wanted to do what he did.
DM: Did you have any early mentors who helped you along your journey?
RZ: Two teachers were integral in my artist journey.
My Jr. High School art teacher was Mr. Steven Lingenfelter. He saw my potential. He pushed me, giving me assignments much more difficult to complete than the other students. He made the requirements to get an “A” grade much tougher for me than the others. He brought out the best in me.
My high school art teacher was Ms. Jane Denison. She believed in me when I did not. I wanted to attend The Ringling Art College, but my family was poor; college tuition was off the table. She told me if I worked hard enough I could win a scholarship. She too pushed me to do my best work. I won the scholarship.
"The Lamentation of Juliet"
DM: What was your first big break as a tattoo artist? Do you remember the piece?
RN: I attended my first tattoo convention called “Inkslinger’s Ball” in 1992. I won the award for best tattoo. It was a portrait of a man wearing a court jester’s hat.
DM: How do you approach designing tattoos that have such deep, personal meaning for your clients?
RZ: I have a consultation to discuss the needs of the client. I then spend time researching sacred symbols and imagery that suits their wants/needs. It is my job to interpret what is in their head and bring it to life in a design. This process can take days, weeks, or even months to ensure the design is just right.
DM: What has been the most challenging tattoo you’ve ever done, and what did you learn from it?
RZ: Challenge comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s a great deal of detail. Other times it’s a simple tattoo that can be done in 10 minutes. With an extremely detailed tattoo the challenge is obvious. A simple tattoo in its design can be even harder. Take a song for instance. It’s easier to impress a crowd with a full band with drums, guitars, a horn section, keyboards, backup singers etc. It’s harder to impress that same crowd with a person playing only an acoustic guitar and a microphone.
My most challenging tattoos have been those that employ a lot of detailed geometric intricate shapes, such as Celtic knot-work. Also portraits, there’s no room for interpretation; it has to look exactly like the person in the picture. These have absolutely no room for error.
You learn the meaning of discipline.
DM: You’ve had an incredibly unique career path—what’s been one of the proudest moments for you so far?
RZ: Receiving a Certificate of Recognition from the Los Angeles City Council and Craft and Folk Art Museum for my contribution to art in Los Angeles. This included a banquet and ceremony in my honor.
DM: How have you seen the artistic world you cherish evolve since you started, and where do you see it going?
RZ: It is unfortunate that the majority of the tattoo world was, and still is in many cases, very low-brow. The “bad boy” image is something that the culture seems to embrace. Many get a kick out of the shock value and wanting to be on the fringe of society. I’m happy to see that a soccer mom can feel comfortable getting a tattoo now as the “bad boy” stigma has diminished.
It has become more demanding of true artistic talent these days; I’m very happy to see that.
The Delivery Man and Roni Zulu at the Driskill in Austin, TX.
DM: Aside from tattooing, you are an accomplished painter, author and musician. What are the sources of inspiration which guide you in picking your next endeavor like becoming falconer?
RZ: I’m inspired by classical music, poetry, nature, philosophy and the human psyche.
Beekeeping and falconry demand I have direct contact and interaction with nature.
My paintings allow me to express what all those things teach and have to offer.
DM: Do you have any dream projects or collaborations you’re working on or hope to in the future?
RZ: I have a Magnum Opus in mind. Once I start, it may very well take years to complete. It will be a very large painting that embodies all of creation.
DM: What advice(s) would you give to young entrepreneurs trying to walk into your footsteps? Any proverbial “don’t do this” coming to mind?
RZ: Don’t listen to nay-sayers; you’ll find them all to be jealous haters.
You must learn, understand and apply discipline.
Always create for yourself first, even when creating for others.
DM: How do you balance your personal and professional life? Any secret routines that keep you grounded?
RZ: Hobbies are important. Do something that makes you happy with no monetary reward.
DM: What’s something new you’ve learned recently that really excited you?
RZ: I’ve been reading a lot of Nietzsche lately. I’m leaning that my thought process is similar to his.
DM: If you could have any animal as a pet, real or mythical, what would it be and why?
RZ: I have it, my hawk. It’s not a pet, it’s a mutual relationship based on respect and benefit.
She teaches me to respect and remain in accord with nature.
DM: What’s your go-to karaoke song? And how’s your performance?
RZ: T.N.T. by AC/DC. My performance brings down the house! (not necessarily because it’s good)
DM: If you had to get a tattoo of one food item, what would it be, and where?
RZ: Chocolate Cake!!! On the palm of my right hand which holds a fork.
DM: Would you rather have the ability to teleport anywhere or be able to speak every language fluently?
Speak every language. Communication can teleport you almost anywhere.
DM: What’s the most unusual place someone has asked to get a tattoo?
RZ: We’ll keep this “G” Rated, therefore I’ll pass on that question!
DM: Thank you, Roni, for sharing such incredible stories, insights, and wisdom with us! Your journey from that stack of untouched coloring books to becoming a multi-talented artist and cultural icon is truly inspiring. It’s clear that creativity, discipline, and a deep connection to nature have shaped your remarkable path.
For all of us reading this, there are some great takeaways. First, embrace your passions and don’t let naysayers derail your vision. Second, remember that discipline is key—whether you’re designing intricate tattoos or managing life’s complexities. And finally, find joy in hobbies and pursuits that keep you grounded, even if they don’t come with a paycheck attached.
We hope Roni’s words spark your own creative journey, wherever that may lead. Keep exploring, stay disciplined, and most of all, enjoy the ride!
Want to learn more about Roni Zulu art and journey?
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ronizulufineartworks
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zulutheartist/
Inside Art Head Podcast Video https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4nBcHCtrIX-zKPJKvj4dF-xfQewhj74r
Inside Art Head Podcast Audio https://insidearthead.buzzsprout.com/
Winter