Transformer is quite literally a white washed hole in the wall on P Street, at least for right now. This space is a non-profit local center for emerging visual artists to display their work, which varies from a life-size snowball to a recreated cornfield exhibit and anything in between.

Yesterday, however, Transformer was dedicated to rock! Nearly 30 people crammed into this teeny tiny space to hear bands The Andalusians and Aquarium for a Dischord Records showcase "A Day of Dischord." I only caught Aquarium, but despite the oppressive heat and volume, the audience enjoyed this straightforward energized synth/drum duo, which singer/keyboardist Jason Hutto described as "Modern Folk."  

Dischord is an independent label and staple in the D.C. area since starting 30 years ago by Minor Threat/Fugazi band member Ian MacAye, a pivotal figure in hardcore music's D.I.Y. movement. Following the performances was a screening of "Instrument" the documentary of Fugazi's history, political awareness, personal identity and involvement in shaping grunge/hardcore music.

AquariumLike the Discord Label, Transformer's current exhibit by Jeff Hnilicka, Sustainability Lab, aims to promote art by "exploring emerging models of cultural production.. and their impact on communities." Hnilicka is a brooklyn based arts administrator dedicating his work toward social responsibility with such projects as Funding Emerging Artists with Sustainable Tactics, or F.E.A.S.T., a potluck fundraising dinner supporting local artists' projects. 

Sustainability Labs continues through June 12th with workshops, art, and discussions. The full schedule is available here.