Malick Bodian presents Modern Mozambique

June 2024

As part of Kisawa Sanctuary’s  Island Residence  series, we are happy to launch Malick Bodian’s experience of Modern Mozambique. Journeying from capital city Maputo, via the coastal hub of Vilankulos, to our island sanctuary on Benguerra; we invited Malick to document the rich rhythm and cultural landscape he encountered on his first visit to the country.

Ranging from candid portraits, bustling subtropical street scenes and the quiet smiles of the individuals of Kisawa; this is a view of the country as seen through its people.

Drawn to the invitation to undertake a photojournalistic journey, this has been a chance for Malick to explore the eastern coast of Africa, not far from his original Senegalese home.

“My job doesn’t always bring me to Africa, so when I received the call to visit Kisawa and Mozambique, I said yes immediately. Firstly, because it was my first time in Mozambique, also because I always wanted to visit. I’m always curious to visit special projects such as Kisawa –  designed so well and carefully taken care of”, Malick says.

“I think it’s important for people to travel across continents, it’s important to inspire each other and see each other’s progress. What I like the most about Mozambique is the heritage of the sea: people realizing how important it is to them and everyone and how they protect it. I also love the landscapes, the food (especially the sea food) and the people I met on my way. They were very calm, I love calm people”.

The model and artist, whose photographic career has included covers for Vogue, campaigns for Bottega Venetta and Chanel, as well as an exhibition in Senegal, is ideally suited to document the story.

“We loved the idea of inviting Malick”, says Kisawa founder and creative director, Nina Flohr.

“His eye is incredibly sensitive and so well referenced, yet his work is very of the moment. It is evident Malick’s heart is strongly connected to Africa and his progressive style resonates sincerely. We felt him to be the perfect artist to portray the contemporary culture of Mozambique and from the moment we started the project together, we were excited by the outcome of what would be created. The result is a beautiful story of genuine images that showcase the real personality of the people and land of Mozambique”.

Kisawa’s Island Residence series invites artists to express their personal experience of Kisawa Sanctuary, the environment on Benguerra Island and in turn, Mozambique. While the country remains mysterious to many outside the continent, Kisawa’s artistic residences offer a platform for a diverse mix of creatives to communicate the spirit of the island, the region and the nation, through multidisciplinary art forms.

Malick Bodian’s photographic essay will be displayed at Kisawa at the end of 2024. More of Malick’s work will be shared on our platforms throughout the next few months. For more information on the collaboration, please see our story in WWD.