KNYSNA NEWS - Art lovers, vintage car enthusiasts and animal lovers gathered at Proudly Bespoke Art on Saturday morning, 4 July, as the gallery, in partnership with South Cape MG Car Club, launched a fundraising campaign in support of Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need during the 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival.

The campaign, which will run throughout the duration of the festival, aims to raise much-needed funds and collect dog food for the animal welfare organisation.

Visitors to the gallery were welcomed by an impressive line-up of vintage vehicles parked outside, creating a unique attraction for festivalgoers.

Inside and around the gallery, some of the oldest dogs cared for by Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need greeted visitors, offering a touching reminder of the organisation's ongoing work to care for vulnerable and abandoned animals.

The initiative has already received strong community support. A cheque for R5 000 was presented to Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need, while generous supporters also donated dog food to assist with the organisation's daily operations.

Artists and Proudly Bespoke Art owners Tersia Cooper and Jeanette Swart are further contributing to the campaign by donating proceeds from the sale of a specially created animal-themed artwork.

Funds raised from the sale will be added to the overall donation presented to the organisation.

The collaboration highlights how local businesses, artists and community partners can work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in need. 

Festivalgoers are encouraged to visit Proudly Bespoke Art during the remainder of the Knysna Oyster Festival to view the artwork, support the fundraising initiative and contribute towards helping Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need continue its vital work.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’