Transformer is a Washington, DC based 501 (c) 3 non-profit, artist-centered organization that connects and promotes emerging artists locally, nationally, and internationally. I'm proud to have worked there for several years in the past coordinating exhibitions and programming, and can say with total honesty Transformer is a truly powerful springboard for emerging artists and emergent expression. Their mission is ambitious, and with a small (but very savvy!) staff, they accomplish more in a year than many larger organizations do in five. I've seen firsthand time and again how Transformer has improved the lives and careers of artists and art-lovers alike. They continually generate exciting and cutting edge programming and exhibitions that bring a fresh perspective to Washington, DC and beyond. That said, if you don't already know Transformer, you SHOULD (get on it!), and if you have a kid in your life, this June is the perfect time to introduce yourself.
Transformer recently secured a Sister Cities Grant from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, and will be doing an artistic exchange with China ( !! ), traveling to Beijing with four DC artists who will be exhibiting, meeting fellow artists, and leading children's workshops. Before they leave, they're leading two FREE postcard-making workshops at their gallery space here in DC (1404 P Street NW). The aforementioned artists will be there with a stash of sweet postcard-making materials (I'll be there myself on June 9th, too), and kids are invited to create postcards to be exchanged with the children in Beijing. Please check out the information from their Facebook invite below, and get in touch soon to RSVP and take advantage of this very cool opportunity:
Transformer invites DC children ages 5-10 to participate in International Delivery - Capital Sister Cities Children's Postcard Exchange, a fun & creative workshop for children in Washington, DC to work with DC artists in making handmade postcards for children in Beijing. All materials will be provided, and the workshops are free-of-charge.
SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 10:30am - 11:30am @ Transformer, led by Chandi Kelley and Stephanie Kwak
SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 10:30am - 11:30am @ Transformer, led by Stephanie Kwak and Paul Shortt
Part of Transformer's upcoming collaboration with the Ullens Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, DC artists Paul Shortt, Chandi Kelley, and Stephanie Kwak will be leading a series of workshops with children at both Transformer & the UCCA to create unique postcards from materials that reflect both cultures as a way to engage the participating children in a cross cultural dialogue that we hope will encourage global awareness among the children of both regions.
If you and your family are interested in attending the DC Children's Workshops and participating in this cultural exchange, please RSVP by emailing Stephanie Kwak at stephanie@transformerdc.or
