IN THE COMPANY OF PAINTINGS
OCTOBER 10TH – NOVEMBER 2, 2025
Photo by Annie Wymore
This fall, Uncanny Art House transformed its gallery into a moody, cinematic environment for In the Company of Paintings, a solo exhibition by self-taught painter James M. Bond. Blending Art Deco elegance with noir intrigue, Bond’s work captured fleeting moments suspended between stillness and story. Cocktails mid-pour, smoke caught in motion, and glances heavy with unspoken tension. Each painting was paired with a cryptic caption, creating an atmosphere where every visitor became part of the unfolding scene.
More than a traditional gallery show, the exhibition was conceived as a full sensory experience. Bond collaborated with Jennifer Ball-Burwell, William Mathison, and Zachary Barney, who served as Director of Exhibition Design and Environment Curation, to extend the world of the paintings into the very walls of the space. Together, they built a setting where art and environment blurred, inviting guests to step inside and linger in its quiet, theatrical drama.
intriguing programs
Over the course of the month, In the Company of Paintings hosted a full lineup of programming that deepened its narrative and brought the community together. The exhibition opened with a private preview for sponsors and collectors, followed by a packed public reception during Norman’s Second Friday Art Walk. Visitors returned for an artist talk and Q&A, an Uncanny Art Hang community night, and a Fourth Friday Film screening of Nosferatu (1922), presented in partnership with the Pioneer Library System.
The highlight of the month, the Halloween Jazz Masquerade, filled the space with live music from Butter and the Genre, cocktails by Scratch Kitchen & Cocktails, and guests dressed in 1920s-inspired attire; all to benefit Preservation Oklahoma.
about Snakebite Nocturne
This limited edition cocktail was a collaborative effort between artist James M. Bond, Scratch, and Uncanny Art House, created to showcase the intersection of art and design in one neatly packaged premixed drink. James illustrated the image featured on the label, which Uncanny designed the packaging around, while Scratch crafted the flavors within. The cocktail was available by the glass or bottle at the Scratch Speakeasy Bar and accompanied by a note from Uncanny that allowed guests to purchase a bottle directly. Attendees could also enjoy this special cocktail the evening of the Masquerade at our catered cash bar.
About Uncanny Art House
Uncanny Art House is an independent, artist-run gallery and creative space dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local artists, and promoting the visual arts. Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma, Uncanny Art House is a hub for creativity, community, and innovation.
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