Every now and then, we receive feedback about our food that makes me pause, smile a little, and reflect on where we are ā and what we offer. Over the years, weāve been told our food is ānot African enough.ā More recently, weāve been told itās ānot European enough.ā And now, occasionally, that the dining room is not decorated enough. In many ways, that perfectly captures the unique space Malealea Lodge occupies.
šØ Meet Mr Majara Leluma from MJ Studio DāArc
Posted on Mon May 26, 2025.
Artist. Storyteller. Visionary
My name is Majara, a 30-year-old Mosotho artist based in Ha Thetsane, Maseru. Art has been part of my life for as long as I can rememberāmore than just a passion, itās how I see and connect with the world.
I began studying Architectural Technology at Lerotholi Polytechnic, but unfortunately had to leave during my second year due to financial constraints. Still, that didnāt stop me. I continued to pursue my love for artāteaching myself, experimenting, and constantly looking for new ways to grow and express my creativity.
What started with sketching and painting evolved into large-scale murals and framed artworks. I find joy in transforming everyday spaces into vibrant, meaningful works of art. For me, every wall, canvas, and surface is a chance to tell a story.
As a young, motivated artist, I bring energy, curiosity, and a spirit of exploration into everything I create. Itās been an honour to bring my work to Malealea Lodge, where the natural beauty and community spirit are a perfect match for my artistic journey.
Murals at Malealea Lodge: A Celebration of Village Life
Each wall Majara has touched at the Lodge is a vibrant tribute to everyday Basotho scenes:
The Shepherd and the Mountains: A lone figure in a mokorotlo (Basotho hat), his silhouette framed by sunset skies, plays a flute under a stylized treeāa peaceful homage to Lesothoās rural rhythms.
Home and Herd: Donkeys, sheep, and a shepherd cradling a lamb bring warmth to the wallsāhonouring the close bond between the land and its people.
Traditional Cooking Scenes: Women stirring pots over open flames outside rondavels reflect the heart of the villageāthe shared moments, labour, and love that nourish families.
A Journey in Progress: Catch a glimpse of Majara himself, mid-brushstroke, bringing each scene to lifeāevery ladder step a testimony to growth, vision, and dedication.
These murals are more than just artātheyāre an invitation into Lesothoās soul, told in Majaraās bold, minimalistic, yet expressive style.
š¼ļø Support Local Art
In addition to his murals, Majaraās unique framed paintings are available for purchase at the lodgeās curio shop. He also creates hand-painted, personalised T-shirts on request. By supporting his work, youāre not only taking home a one-of-a-kind piece of Lesothoāyouāre also helping a young, passionate artist continue building a life through creativity and self-expression.
Majara is currently working on his online portfolio, and as soon as itās ready, weāll share the link here so you can explore more of his incredible work.
š± Connect with the Artist
š§ Email: mrmajaraleluma@gmail.com
š WhatsApp/Phone: +266 57482922 | +266 62780022
Further Reading
Food at Malealea Lodge: Honest, Hearty, and From the Heart
Fri January 2, 2026
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URGENT: Community & Child Safety Alert ā Action Required: No Sweets or Food Handouts Along the Road
Mon December 29, 2025
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Dear Partners, It has come to our attention that visitors are stopping along the road to distribute sweets and biscuits to local children. While we understand this is done with good intentions, we must urgently ask that this practice stop immediately. Over many years, we have worked closely with community leaders and chiefs to discourage roadside begging. Unfortunately, these actions are undoing that progress and creating serious risks: Safety: Children are now...
Marek's Lesotho Journey
Fri December 5, 2025
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š A Note From Malealea Lodge ā Updated for 2025 Where slow travel meets modern comforts in the Heart of Lesotho Since Marek wrote the beautiful story below about his stay at Malealea Lodge in February, 2025, a few things have changed here in the mountains ā all for the better. ā Weāve upgraded our entire internet system to Starlink, bringing: ā¢ Free Wi-Fi for all guests ā¢ Very high-speed connectivity ā...
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