Bars host art campaign on colon cancer symptoms

Georgia CORE (Center for Oncology Research and Education) has launched Weird Looking Stools, a statewide awareness campaign designed to prompt conversations about colon cancer and encourage screenings. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Georgia and the U.S., and is projected to become the leading cause of cancer death among people under 50 by 2030.

The campaign, running through November 30, places artist-designed stools in 20 bars across Georgia. Each piece, created by visual artist Julian Scalia, depicts real symptoms of colon cancer and includes a QR code linking to resources, screening guidelines and local providers.

The stools represent signs such as blood in stools, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, anemia and narrow stools.

Lynn Durham, President & CEO, Georgia CORE: “If you see a weird stool in your local bar, it’s more than a conversation starter—it’s a reminder to check for symptoms. Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers if caught early. This campaign is about making people stop, look, and take action.”

Participating locations include Park Bar, Black Coffee, Fado’s Irish Pub, The Beverly and Atlantic Grill in Atlanta, with additional restaurants in Athens, Valdosta, Macon and Gainesville.

Georgia CORE worked with Atlanta agency Chemistry and its production arm Test Tube to develop the concept, collaborate with artist Julian Scalia, and design the campaign’s visual identity. The agency shaped the creative approach to make the message culturally relevant and shareable.

The campaign is supported by the Georgia Colorectal Cancer Control Program, funded by a CDC grant, which provides free screenings in Southwest and Southeast Georgia through local health centers and regional coalitions.

Georgia CORE does not provide screenings directly but connects people with insured and uninsured care options. The campaign urges adults 45 and older to speak with their doctors about screenings and encourages younger people to be aware of symptoms.

The Weird Looking Stools campaign will officially launch with an event sponsored by the Georgia Society of Clinical Oncology (GASCO).