Transformer’s Exercises for Emerging Artists program supports DC emerging artists at critical crossroads in their professional growth & creative development. Focusing on a different artistic discipline each year, E17: Zines explores the multifaceted use of zines and DIY publishing. Artists Ayana Zaire Cotton, Jennifer Lillis, Athena Naylor, Late Comeback Press (Rachna Soun & Caroline Kim), Evyan Roberts, and Julie Sheah participated in four months of rigorous, bi-weekly peer mentorship this spring, guided by Transformer staff, lead mentor Christopher Kardambikis, and a dynamic roster of guest mentors, including: #Blkgrlswurld ZINE (Christina Long & Courtney Long), Erica Federhen (Ipsy Bipsy Studio), Malaka Gharib, Adam Griffiths, Monica Johnson, Adriana Monsalve, andRisolve Studio (Lyndsey Burke & Sebastian Burke).

The participating E17:Zines artists have created a series of innovative zine publications that will be featured for viewing and purchase this summer at Transformer’s online store.E17:Zines will also be presented via a storefront window installation at Transformer from August 1 – September 5, 2020.

Audiences are invited to learn more about the program, the participating artists, and their work through a series of Wednesday evening online summer panels.

Free; Advanced registration is required:

July 29, 2020, 6-7pm: Ayana Zaire Cotton & Jennifer Lillis

August 5, 2020, 6-7pm: Athena Naylor & Late Comeback Press

August 12, 2020, 6-7pm: Julie Sheah & Evyan Roberts