Keith A. Nelson
Contemporary Artwork
Jack and Coke

Jack and Coke
2017
Acrylic on canvas
48” x 60” (122cm x 152.4cm)
As a younger man I didn't drink alcohol and it evolved into a game among my classmates and friends to see who would be the first to get me to drink something more mood altering than Mtn. Dew.
Returning from a mountain bike ride in college I ran into an old friend. Assuming I was probably thirsty, he offered me his can of Coca Cola. As I took what I thought was going to be a thirst quenching drink, he began to laugh, celebrating his grand achievement.
After years of people trying to get me to drink alcohol, he finally did it. I had to laugh too, after my throat quit burning. That was no ordinary can of Coke. It was Jack Daniels with a little Coke splashed in for good measure.
I am much older now, but that memory still makes me chuckle. I rarely drink, except for the occasional glass of wine, but sometimes when the mood strikes a “Jack and Coke”.