the undrinkable can is a satirical statement against the world's most-sold drink

the Undrinkable Can: A Satirical Confrontation with Coca-Cola’s Impact

In a bold fusion of art and activism, The Undrinkable Can by anonymous Art Collective QSTNMRK emerges as a poignant commentary on the environmental and health impacts of Coca-Cola‘s universal presence. The project involves producing a limited edition of 1500 custom-made cans, each containing Coca-Cola and sealed permanently, making them impossible to open. Each can, priced based on its sequential order and adorned with a unique display case number, contains the standard 39g of sugar found in a typical Coca-Cola, highlighting issues of consumption and consequence. This satirical art project sparks conversation, prompting viewers to consider the paradox of desire and impossibility while also raising questions about the market’s valuation of art.

highlighting the climate disaster and alarming health issues caused by the Coca-Cola Company, all images by QSTNMRK

savor the first Coke you can’t drink

Through The Undrinkable Can, QSTNMRK aims to raise awareness about the environmental and health effects associated with the Coca-Cola Company. On their website, the team highlights some significant points sourced from reputable sources, implicating Coca-Cola for its actions, including its role in exacerbating plastic pollution, contributing to the increase in diabetes rates, and worsening water scarcity. In addition to its artistic message, the project takes a bold financial stance by shorting Coca-Cola’s stock on Nasdaq. Through this action, the creators aim to challenge the company’s practices and amplify their message despite the risks involved. ‘By the end of the month, 100% of the profits from ‘The Undrinkable Can’ will be invested in a short against Coca Cola’s stock on Nasdaq, a position we plan to open publicly for several months,’ describes the team. ‘If Coca Cola’s stockprice goes up, we lose. If Coca Cola stock price decreases, we win.’ However, if their trade proves profitable, they will donate all profits from this short to three different NGOs based in Chiapas, which are fighting against Coca Cola’s water extraction monopoly in the region. Debuting at Zona Maco, the largest art fair in Latin America, the artwork has sparked intrigue and discussions, positioning itself as a driver of social and environmental awareness. Explore more projects displayed at the event in our previous article here.

the first can was sold for $1, the second can for $2, the third for $3, and so on