CHECK OUT PHOTOBOOTH PICS FROM THE EVENT HERE
Uncanny Art House, a new cooperative art hub in downtown Norman, is excited to announce its grand opening during the 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk on September 13th, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, with a special acoustic performance by local singer-songwriter Samantha Crain at 7:00 PM. Uncanny Art House offers a vibrant space for artists of all ages and styles, providing education, networking, studio access, and exhibition opportunities. This innovative art space aims to foster creativity and collaboration within the local artistic community.
The opening of Uncanny Art House marks an expansion of what was formerly known as Uncanny Alley, which opened in November 2023 in a nearby loft space. Uncanny Alley quickly became a beloved spot for intimate events, creative showcases, and community engagement. As the collective grew and the need for a larger space to host events became clear, the decision was made to move to the 106 East Main Street location. The final event at Uncanny Alley was held in July 2024.
The new Uncanny Art House space allows for larger events and a more versatile environment for artists to create and showcase their work. The cooperative is home to several talented artists and creators, including Jennifer Burwell, Jesse Edgar, Dylan Johnson, Julius, Annatova Neches, and Chase Spivey.
The grand opening event will feature three distinct gallery exhibitions:
UAH Members’ Gallery
Featuring updated works from the six current Uncanny Art House co-op members, this gallery highlights a variety of styles and mediums, reflecting the diverse artistic voices within the collective. This collection will present a wide a range of work by long time Norman artists in a variety of creative fields including photography, painting, illustration, and design. The member’s gallery will rotate with new work as the space will function as a creative production space and provide a way for the public to interact with working artists in a more accessible way.
New Works by KT Duffy
KT Duffy, a new media artist from Chicago’s southwest side and Assistant Professor in Art, Technology, and Culture at the University of Oklahoma, will showcase a provocative and immersive exhibition featuring large-scale sculptures and projection mapping. Duffy's work is created through code-based processes and digital fabrication, exploring the intersections of identity, technology, and societal structures. As a Neurodivergent-NonBinary artist, Duffy breaks the boundaries of binary systems, ones that translate immeasurable connections and examine the system’s impending demise. This exhibition will also feature soundscapes by Laine Bergeron, a musician and Co-Owner of the Opolis in downtown Norman.
In addition to their own creative practices, Duffy is a member of several ongoing collaborative endeavors, such as Langer Over Dickie Projects, CQDELab, and Mx. Studio.
New Works by Saray Suarez-
Spotlighting the next generation of local talent and vision emerging from our community and the exploration of new media works, this exhibition will also present work from 3rd year Art, Technology, and Culture Major Saray Suarez–a gender-nonconforming, Chicanx, and first-generation art student, drawing inspiration from her upbringing by Mexican immigrant parents. With the inevitable tensions arising from differing beliefs, Saray learned how to apply the virtues of humility and intellectual curiosity–creating art at a young age with the help of her dad, and she has continued creating ever since.
Performance by Samantha Crain
Singer-songwriter Samantha Crain will perform a solo acoustic set at 7:00pm. Samantha Crain is an American singer-songwriter and musician from Shawnee, Oklahoma, known for her distinctive blend of folk, Americana, and indie rock. A member of the Choctaw Nation, Crain's work often reflects her Indigenous heritage and rural upbringing, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and storytelling. Since her debut in 2007, she has gained critical acclaim for her powerful, emotive voice and insightful lyrics, releasing multiple albums that showcase her growth as an artist. Crain is also recognized for her advocacy work, using her platform to raise awareness on issues affecting Indigenous communities.
The event is free and open to the public. Guests can enjoy light refreshments and snacks while exploring the space and engaging with local artists. Among the featured offerings is the 'Uncanny Art Pilsner,' a newly released beer created in partnership between Uncanny Art House and Lazy Circles Brewing.
