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Inhaler and Crack Bottles by Keith Coventry

Keith Coventry's work concerns a medicinal drug derived from plants, cocaine. In the hands of medical science it is a pain relief drug, but is now largely associated with drug addiction. Coventry’s series on crack cocaine is an example of the way the boundary between medicinal and recreational drugs has been blurred, and our different reactions to the two are based on how they are used and their effects on the individual.

Coventry has direct experience of drug addiction, as his van, which was parked outside his studio, was occupied by crack users. As in previous work, here he tackles issues in urban life using the art historical genre of still life. Inhaler, a cast of a Ventolin inhaler, is to many a life saver, giving breath. But on closer inspection the viewer notices that this common medicinal aid has been adapted for the inhalation of crack cocaine. The bottles, too, have been converted to crack pipes. Ironically, one of these is a spa water bottle and one a Diet Coke bottle. Coca Cola contained cocaine up until the 1930s giving it its name. Crack Bottles by Keith Coventry, © Keith Coventry

Inhaler by Keith Coventry, Commissioned by the Multiples Store. © Keith Coventry

Keith Coventry (born in Burnley in 1958) studied Fine Art at Brighton Polytechnic followed by an MFA at Chelsea School of Art. In 1982 he was selected for Northern Young Contemporaries at the Whitworth Art Gallery. During the late 80s and 90s his paintings made direct stylistic references to early 20th century abstract painting whilst commenting on contemporary social issues and life.   His work has been shown in Century City, Tate Modern (2001); and Sensation, Brooklyn Museum of Art, NY (2000) & Emily Tsingou Gallery, London (2002). His work is included in many collections including the MOMA, New York, University of Warwick, the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, the Arts Council, the British Council and the Saatchi Collection.

This work was purchased with support from The Wellcome Trust.

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