Coca-Cola, Atlanta... and Warhol?? Wait.

  1. High Museum of Art
     1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
  2. Phone: (404) 733-4400


We have seen the infamous bottle in movies, with models, commercials everywhere and even in artistic form. We have popped open a bottle with our parents and friends, even added a drop to red wine (so good and highly recommended). The syrup drink that when stirred flat, it cures stomach aches. The most popular soda by far, that essentially many have grown up with.

*Coca~Cola*

On a hot summer day, while sipping on an ice cold Coca~Cola.. Have you ever wondered where the unique shaped bottle began? 

Well, I haven't however it was wonderful learning the history behind the bottle and the ICON involved in getting the unique shape out there in the world! Currently on exhibit in the High Museum in Atlanta now!! In 1915, when the company wanted to create a new and distinct bottle design (to separate themselves from the copy cats) they landed upon an elongated illustration of a cocoa bean and they knew they found it! They wanted the bottle to be SO different that even when the glass smashed to pieces the public would still now what it once was...

 
Now, for the drawings it was Mr. Andy Warhol (1928-1987) who gave the bottles their widely known and recognizable iconic image. In 1961-1962 Warhol made the two images above, he presented both sketches to a friend who by far preferred the sleek image compared to the blurred (my favorite is the blurred drawing). However, it was this "breakthrough" moment that depicted and transformed Warhol's career and the images he was known for - and also created "the history of postwar art".


The first design, 1890 (above)


At one point the soda company decided to try a new recipe, after their original recipe became so widely popular. However the backlash was so bad they had to revert to what their public wanted and the formula that once was is still what we drink today.


Above, one of the original Coca~Cola bottles


 So 1920's.... well 1923 to be exact :)


  Another of Mr. Warhol's drawings.. #IconFound


 Take a closer look.. a room in Times Square with all the lights reflecting off!



If you are in the area, I highly push you to enter the High ;) Museum and take in the entire exhibit as it is fascinating to learn more about one of America's most iconic products.


Exhibit and info via: High Museum and Coca-Cola

 

CONTACT

If you’re interested in collaborating or have any questions, you’re more than welcome to send me an e-mail at: IconsWanted@gmail.com. Thanks!