Some of South Africa’s most beloved institutions are struggling to stay open as the national lockdown continues to bite.

Clarke’s Bookshop, which has been in existence in Cape Town’s Long Street for almost 65 years, is also feeling the pressure, so to raise funds it is collaborating with Aspire Art Auctions by hosting an online art auction.

The auction is already under way and includes book-inspired artworks from well-known South African artists such as William Kentridge, Jane Alexander, Brett Murray, Penny Siopis and Conrad Botes.

Clarke’s began as a second-hand bookshop in 1957 but now specialises in South African books, including those that are out of print. The iconic bookshop has been prioritising paying its staff during the lockdown, but by now owes money to quite a few of its suppliers – and that’s where the auction comes in.

All proceeds will be shared between the bookshop and the artists who are taking part, and the auction will close at 6pm on June 1.

To register for participation visit auctions.aspireart.net.

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