A Painting for Mr. Woodruff:

The Story Behind the Art

When it came time to celebrate Robert Woodruff’s 90th birthday, Coca-Cola’s Marketing Department knew they needed a truly special gift for the man who had transformed Coca-Cola into a global icon. My dad, who was part of that team, spearheaded the idea to commission a painting that would honor both Mr. Woodruff’s life and his deep connection to Georgia. The result was a remarkable watercolor by the renowned Georgia artist George I. Parrish, Jr., a stunning tribute to Coca-Cola’s history, Georgia’s culture, and Mr. Woodruff’s personal legacy.

The Kimberly Connection

The story of the painting begins with my dad’s time at Kimberly-Clark, where he worked under James Kimberly, one of the company’s key figures. Mr. Kimberly was a prominent businessman, and his wife Jacqueline gained some notoriety for her involvement in a scandal with Peter and Roxanne Pulitzer in Florida—a sensational story that made headlines at the time. While the scandal had no connection to my dad or the painting, it provides an interesting bit of context about the circles in which my dad moved during his career.

It was during his Kimberly-Clark years that my dad first encountered George Parrish, an incredibly talented artist known for his versatility and ability to capture historical and cultural themes with precision and depth. Years later, when my dad transitioned to Coca-Cola, he never forgot Mr. Parrish’s work. So, when the Marketing Department needed an artist for Mr. Woodruff’s birthday project, my dad reached out to Parrish, recognizing him as the perfect person for the task.

The Painting: A Tribute to Georgia and Coca-Cola

The painting itself is an extraordinary piece of art, combining elements of Georgia’s rich history with personal tributes to Mr. Woodruff. Commissioned by Coca-Cola’s Marketing Department, it was designed to celebrate Mr. Woodruff’s 90 years of life and his unparalleled contributions to Coca-Cola and the state of Georgia. Among the many details included in the painting are:

  • James Oglethorpe, founder of Georgia.
  • The State Capitol, symbolizing Georgia’s cultural and political significance.
  • The Okefenokee Swamp, highlighting the natural beauty of the state.
  • Ichauway Plantation, Mr. Woodruff’s personal retreat and sanctuary.
  • Plains, GA, home of Jimmy Carter, a friend of Mr. Woodruff.
  • Bobby Jones, the legendary golfer and a close personal friend of Mr. Woodruff.
  • Midway Congregational Church, a site with deep personal meaning to him.

The painting is not only a tribute to Mr. Woodruff but also a celebration of the state he loved and the company he helped make an icon.

George Parrish: The Artist Behind the Vision

George I. Parrish, Jr. (1930–1992), a Georgia native, was uniquely suited for this project. Known for his historical realism, Parrish’s work spanned a wide range of mediums and styles, including oil painting, line drawings, caricature, and print media. He studied under Norman Rockwell, a connection that speaks to the level of artistry he brought to his projects. Parrish’s ability to combine historical accuracy with emotional resonance made him the perfect choice to create a piece for Mr. Woodruff.

Dad’s Role in the Creation

For my dad, commissioning this painting was more than just a task at work—it was a deeply personal project. His respect for Mr. Woodruff and his admiration for Parrish’s talent came together in a way that resulted in something truly meaningful. It was a full-circle moment for him, reconnecting with Parrish after years apart and using that relationship to create something lasting.

A Piece of History

This painting remains one of the most remarkable Coca-Cola-related pieces I’ve had the privilege of being connected to. It’s a reminder of the creative and personal energy that went into celebrating Coca-Cola’s history and the people who made it great. It’s also a testament to my dad’s dedication, his ability to forge meaningful connections, and his knack for bringing the right people together for the right projects.

While this piece isn’t actively listed for sale, it could be made available for the right offer. Its value is not just in its artistic and historical significance, but in the personal story and legacy it carries.