Going on safari is all about immersing yourself in the African bush, but let’s be honest – the aesthetic of where you stay plays a big role in the experience, too.
Tucked away in South Africa’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Molori Safari is an ultra-stylish retreat that blends incredible wildlife with world-class luxury, and our impressive art collection is just one of the many things that make us special.
From striking sculptures to beautiful paintings, some of the pieces here wouldn’t be out of place in a top gallery, but what really sets the lodge apart is how seamlessly they’re woven into the everyday spaces, making them feel like a natural part of your stay.
Let’s take a closer look at the stunning art collection that adds to Molori Safari’s unique charm.
Where Art Meets Design
From the moment you arrive at Molori Safari, you are greeted not only by the awe-inspiring view of the Madikwe Valley bleeding into the Dwarsberg Mountains, but by interiors that are flamboyant, textured and a bold meeting of art and design. The result of this eclectic, high-fashion space – thoughtfully put together by South African design studio Hesse Kleinloog – is both worldly and entirely of its place.
Owner Ivor Ichikowitz explains the vision behind the lodge’s feel: “We wanted to create something extraordinary that resonates with our guests and speaks to our love for both art and Africa.”
From Ceiling To Floor
While traditional art may find its place on gallery walls, one of the first things you’ll notice at Molori Safari are the colourful, one-of-a-kind rugs dotting the floors – both in the main lodge and in your respective suites.
These vibrant rugs are not your average floor coverings. Each rug is the reimagining of an existing work by some of South Africa’s most influential artists, including Athi-Patra Ruga, Jody Paulsen, and Cameron Platter.
Take, for instance, the iconic ‘Eat Me (Bananas)’ rug by Jody Paulsen displayed in the main lodge. Its bold colors and surreal design immediately capture your attention, adding a playful yet refined atmosphere to the space. Paulsen, known for his provocative work, brings an irreverent edge to Molori’s otherwise elegant aesthetic.
Other artists contributing to the rug collection include Maja Marx, Nabeeha Mohamed, and Koos Groenewald, whose designs bring striking modernity into the lodge’s traditional African setting. The collaboration between the artists and local South African weavers has resulted in rugs that not only represent their creators’ vision but also embody a narrative of community and craftsmanship.
We just know you’ll absolutely love them!
A Family’s Collection
Great art collections and furniture cannot be bought wholesale; they must be curated over time. This has certainly been the case at Molori Safari, where each corner tells the story of the Ichikowitz family’s travels and love of Africa. The lodge’s interiors are a rich tapestry of bespoke, contemporary furniture and rare treasures sourced from around the globe.
“Our bigger asset is our team,” says Ivor, “but we also want our guests to enjoy the story told through the aesthetics of the lodge. Every piece of art, every piece of furniture has a story to tell about the journey of [our] family.”
What can you look forward to?
Iconic pieces like the Fendi Casa chaises longues and the Philipp Plein swing beds, which continue to feature in the presidential suites. These luxury furnishings coexist effortlessly with vintage Louis Vuitton bars and Ethiopian beaded armchairs, creating a space where guests feel as though they’ve entered a private sanctuary that is as sophisticated as it is inviting.
Bonus! The art-lovers among you will be pleased to spot works by big names like Norman Catherine, Lady Skollie and Edoardo Villa dotted throughout the lodge.
Stay With Us
A stay at Molori Safari is an all-encompassing experience. Our lodge offers exciting wildlife encounters, including sightings of rare species like the African wild dog and the cheetah (as well as the Big 5), all within the lush and diverse Madikwe Game Reserve.
We invite you to browse our gorgeous suites and get in touch with our team at reservations@molorisafari.com to secure your dates.
Alternatively, feel free to book your own stay by making use of our online booking platform.
Come and experience the artistic side of a safari in Africa in a way few ever do!
