Linden’s gem is the perfect place to buy gifts or simply spoil yourself
When it comes time to buy presents, my first (and often only) stop is Gonk. Opened in Linden in August last year, Gonk is the creation of Gerhardt Oosthuizen and Kosie Nagel and is an incredible tribute to South African creatives and artisans. Gerhardt and Kosie are self-proclaimed lovers of anything beautiful and tasteful, which is immediately clear when you enter their bright, welcoming store. Every surface is covered with the kind of charming pieces that you can't help but imagine in your home.
Constantly working to find and showcase new South African artists, Gerhardt and Kosie have a dream of eventually having their store stocked fully with pieces from local artists only. Well on their way to that dream (there are imported pieces here and there), the store is a treasure trove of ceramics, woodwork, glassware, jewellery, cloth, and just about any other craft you can think of.
Walking around, you'll find work by artists from Cape Town, Hillcrest, Durban, Stellenbosch, Jeppestown, Muldersdrift, Pretoria, and several from local Linden creators. As Kosie says, “We often get people walking in to the shop and asking if we will stock their pieces. We are always keen to explore new things. You dream it; we can help you make it possible.” Through their store and their regular involvement in markets throughout Johannesburg, they’re helping many South African artisans get their names out there and their products sold.
With their store going from strength to strength, the Gonk duo are working hard to ensure that they always have new and exciting items so that they can solidify their position as the go-to spot for signature gifts. They created their own men’s range called Stag (the solid hand lotion and the beer soap are amazing), and there's really something for everyone in their store. Visit Gonk or make your way to The Linden Market on 5 March and pick out some unique gift options.
Experience it for yourself:
Gonk
082 478 0779
gonk.co.za
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
