Artists find a home at Lion Sands

Arising out of the earth and blending into the landscape, the award-winning Lion Sands Ivory Lodge in Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga, was inspired by its breath-taking natural surroundings. The design is both a reflection and an incorporation of the Africa bush, treading lightly and honouring the space it occupies on the banks of the Sabie River.

The lodge and the pristine environment that is her backdrop are the inspiration and home to renowned South African artists, who have been invited to the Artist Residency. A gallery and studio situated within the lodge, it welcomes local artists to live, work, and interact with guests. Staying for up to six weeks, the artists are able to draw unparalleled inspiration from their location and wildlife sightings to create new pieces, while also showcasing their work.

With the intention to promote South African art and develop new talent, MORE Family Collection launched the Artist Residency in 2021. The concept also echoes the desire among travellers worldwide to have meaningful, immersive, and experiential experiences. Guests can spend time engaging with the talented artists, learning about their creative processes, and perhaps investing in an original, collectible artwork.

“Historically we have always supported local artists,” explains MORE CEO Robert More, “and our aim with the Artist Residency is to bring them into a creative space where they can focus on their craft, while connecting with an appreciative audience. For our guests, this is an enriching and unique experience that enhances their stay at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge."

Artists as custodians of nature

The Artist Residency has already hosted three talented sculptors, carefully selected as custodians of nature in their own right by translating the natural world into the medium of their choice.

Sculptor Chris Röhm, a self-taught artist, who after working at a bronze foundry developed a love for the process of casting in bronze. Chris is also a champion of environmental awareness and a sculpture close to his heart is that of a rhino entitled 'Take your best shot' – highlighting the threat to the species.

Renowned bronze sculptor Robert Leggatt is an artist whose passion for his subject matter results in exceptional, highly realistic sculptures of wildlife from massive hippos to tiny birds. The incredible attention to detail is achieved by spending hours studying and drawing his subject. He was joined by his son Brendan, who has followed in his father’s footsteps and also sculpts in bronze, albeit using a different casting process for his creations.

Victoria Newton-King, a self-taught sculptor uses a rare wax technique, and her pangolin stole hearts at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge. She describes her style as quirky and playful, and her sculptures range from small maquettes right up to 1.5m high.

As this uplifting concept of the Artist Residency continues to grow, evolve, and reveal the spirit of Africa to guests from all over the world, so too will the importance of preserving our heritage and conserving our wildlife remain centre stage.