Dive into the Hilarious World of Bathroom Graffiti: Caitlin Cook’s Unique Musical Journey

Caitlin Cook, an art history enthusiast turned touring stand-up comedian and musician, has found inspiration in the most unexpected of places: public restrooms. Over the years, she has meticulously documented the often hilarious, bizarre, and thought-provoking graffiti found in bathroom stalls, transforming these hidden gems into a captivating performance art form.

The Birth of "The Writing on the Stall"

What began as a quirky pastime has evolved into a remarkable production titled The Writing on the Stall: A One-Woman Bathroom Graffiti Musical. Following a successful off-Broadway run, Cook is set to bring her unique blend of humor and music to Eugene on Wednesday, October 30, at the Olsen Run Comedy Club & Lounge. This show has already garnered acclaim with sold-out performances in London and at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Artistry in the Unlikeliest of Places

In a recent conversation with Eugene Weekly, Cook shared her journey, stating that photographing bathroom graffiti "beautifully broke my brain" during a time when she was reevaluating her relationship with art. She elaborates on the restroom's role as a space where women bond, gossip, and reveal secrets, with graffiti serving as a confessional outlet.

A Musical Experience Like No Other

During her performance, Cook not only narrates stories but also strums her guitar and sings about the often overlooked art of bathroom stall graffiti (also known as latrinalia). The set design features a public restroom ambiance, complete with a toilet that Cook humorously interacts with at times.

What You Can Expect

• Insightful anecdotes from Cook's life.
• Observational humor about the messages found in public restrooms.
• Projected visuals of graffiti that shed light on societal norms.
• A playful contrast between women’s positive affirmations and men’s more crude illustrations in restroom art.

Exploring Vulnerability Through Art

From an art historian's perspective, Cook believes that “writing on toilet walls is neither for critical acclaim nor financial reward; it is the purest form of art.” Her show weaves together her coming-of-age story with themes of social anxiety and the intricate connections we share through our shared bathroom experiences. She encourages audiences to embrace vulnerability, revealing how these small moments can unite us.

Join Caitlin Cook for an Unforgettable Night

Don’t miss your chance to see Caitlin Cook’s The Writing on the Stall: A One-Woman Bathroom Graffiti Musical at 7 PM on Wednesday, October 30, at Olsen Run Comedy Club & Lounge, located at 44 East 7th Avenue. Tickets are available for $30, and the event is 21-plus.

What do you think?

• Do you believe bathroom graffiti can be considered a legitimate form of art?
• How do you feel about the vulnerability expressed in public restrooms?
• Are there topics you think should remain off-limits in comedic performances?
• What are your thoughts on the balance between humor and social commentary in art?