Al Scorch’s Bathroom Reviews Spotlight Chicago Civic Art
Chicago musician Al Scorch spots unique art in local restrooms, sparking civic pride today
Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.
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Chicago’s urban landscape has long been celebrated for its architectural marvels and vibrant street art, but rarely does the city get a review of an entirely different kind—its public restrooms. Al Scorch, a Chicago-based musician and comedian renowned for his offbeat humor and clever observations, has turned an everyday city amenity into a source of artful inspiration. For the past six months, Scorch has been visiting Park District bathrooms and posting his unique critiques online. His videos, which highlight everything from green-tiled walls at Gompers Park to the polished terrazzo floors at Shabbona Park, not only entertain but also remind the community of the small yet significant civic gems that surround everyday life.
Reviewing Chicago’s Civic Restroom Gems
In one of his most engaging reviews, Scorch captured the playful spirit of Chicago’s public facilities by filming a video inside a bathroom located at Sherman Park on 1301 W. 52nd St. With a characteristic Chicago accent and an infectious enthusiasm, he dubbed these spaces “palaces of the people.” Through his lens, mundane restrooms were transformed into sites of local pride—a tribute to government programs that serve the community. Scorch explains that these facilities, with their intricate tile patterns, locally made hand dryers, and decorative window designs, are not merely functional but are imbued with aesthetic value that brings nostalgia for many who grew up in the city.
Growing up in Chicago and benefiting from the Park District’s free programs, Scorch was struck by the unexpected beauty and functionality of these bathrooms. His unique perspective is a blend of humor and sincere admiration for public services. He often reminds his viewers that while his reviews are lighthearted and fun, they also carry a deeper message about civic responsibility. “The goal of government is to take care of the people,” Scorch remarks, emphasizing that when public facilities are well maintained and thoughtfully designed, they enhance the quality of life for everyone.
The Art Of Bathroom Critique
Scorch’s approach to reviewing restrooms is as meticulous as it is amusing. In his latest videos, he breaks down the design elements of several Park District bathrooms. For instance, he points out the green tiles that adorn the walls of Gompers Park’s facilities, the polished surfaces complementing the terrazzo floors at Shabbona Park, and the patterned windows near Kilbourn Park’s urinals. Each detail is presented with a blend of analytical observation and playful narrative that makes his critiques both informative and entertaining.
Beyond the aesthetics, there is a thoughtful commentary running through his work. Scorch uses his platform as a way to celebrate the often-overlooked aspects of urban infrastructure. His reviews subtly challenge the notion that beauty is confined to traditional art forms. Instead, he asserts that everyday environments—when cared for and appreciated—can be works of art in their own right. One of his most quoted lines, articulated from within a Sherman Park bathroom, encapsulates his vision: these are indeed “civic gems for everybody in the city to enjoy.”
What also sets Scorch apart is his knack for turning seemingly trivial subjects into viral sensations. His reputation precedes him—previous videos have seen him recite an original poem about hot dogs and capture the antics of Chonk, a giant snapping turtle from the Chicago River, with equal measures of humor and insight. These moments have garnered national headlines and invitations from prestigious organizations like the Poetry Foundation, proving that his work resonates far beyond social media circles.
Scorch’s creative reviews have sparked discussions about urban design and public art. They invite residents and visitors alike to reconsider the value of public spaces. His work is a reminder that cities are composed of countless small details, each contributing to the overall fabric of urban life. With each video, he not only entertains but also educates, urging us to notice and appreciate the functional art that exists in unexpected places.
Furthermore, Scorch’s efforts reflect a broader cultural trend where humor and critical observation converge to honor public services. His methodical yet playful critique of Chicago’s restrooms is a celebration of the city’s commitment to providing quality spaces for its citizens. It is a testament to how art and utility can intersect in everyday spaces, reaffirming that government initiatives aimed at serving the public can also enhance our aesthetic environments.
By spotlighting these overlooked civic facilities, Scorch challenges his audience to view public spaces with a renewed sense of appreciation. His work not only lifts the mundane into the realm of the extraordinary but also serves as a call for continued investment in community infrastructure. In a city as dynamic and diverse as Chicago, it is these subtle celebrations of public service that truly enhance urban life.
In the world of digital content and social media, where trends are fleeting, Al Scorch’s bathroom reviews offer a refreshing blend of humor, insight, and genuine civic pride. His videos remind us that every corner of our city—no matter how utilitarian—can harbor unexpected beauty and deserve recognition.
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