TRANSFORMER presents:

MICA AND MISAKI

Transformer, a new artist organization founded by independent curators and arts administrators Victoria Reis and Jayme McLellan, proudly presents its premiere exhibition "Mica and Misaki". Featuring the work of Washington, DC based photographer Mica G. Scalin (Options 1999) and New York based installation artist Misaki Kawai (Tensionism, curated by Kenny Schachter), the exhibition will open with a public reception for the artists June 8, 2002 from 6-8pm. The exhibition will continue through July 13, 2002.

Exploring the culture of Japan through the mode of tourist, Mica Scalin has created a panoramic photography installation of images reflecting her experience of Japanese culture during a two-month excursion to several Japanese cities. Misaki Kawai, a Japanese artist who recently moved to the United States to develop her career as an artist, has created a multi-media "treehouse" installation, complete with 12" character dolls, commenting on her experience of American pop culture and suburban rituals.

Transformer seeks to connect and promotes Washington, DC emerging artists through high quality, professional exhibitions and workshops, while providing much needed mentoring and peer-networking among local, national, and international artists. Partnering with artists, curators, alternative non-profit and independent art spaces, as well as commercial galleries, museums and other cultural institutions, Transformer serves as a catalyst and advocate for emergent expression in the visual arts.

"Book", an exhibition focusing on artist books and zines will follow in August 2002. There will be a public reception for the participating "Book" artists August 9th, with an artist book and zine workshop August 10th. This exhibition will close September 7th.

The Transformer Exhibition Series for Emerging Visual Artists is supported by the Transformer Board and Advisory Council, as well as individual donors and the Trust for Mutual Understanding.

Transformer gallery hours are Thursday and Friday from 6:30 to 8:30pm, Saturday from 12-5pm or by appointment. Regular gallery hours will begin Thursday, June 13, 2002. Transformer is located at 1404 P Street, NW Washington, DC 20005.