Auction Exhibition:
November 9-20, 2026
Gala Night:
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Diplomatic Chair:
Dr. Ralf Heckner, Ambassador of Switzerland
to the United States
& Dr. Ilaria Macconi Heckner
Join Transformer in celebration of our 22nd Annual Benefit Auction event, The Kaleidoscope Effect, featuring a two-week public Auction Exhibition at The LINE DC Hotel November 9 - 20, 2026 and Benefit Gala on Saturday, November 21. Bringing recognition to new generations of emerging artists and highlighting innovative contemporary art, The Kaleidoscope Effect will feature 170+ artworks & experiences up for silent bidding.
Expanding on Transformer’s long-standing relationship with The LINE DC, this special Auction partnership is a dynamic elevation of our highly anticipated Annual Gala event for participating artists, our donors, and guests. All proceeds sustain Transformer's artist-centered exhibitions and programs, advancing new visual arts practices and engaging audiences with emerging contemporary art.
Transformer will take over the entirety of The LINE DC, with our Auction Exhibition presented throughout the hotel’s G-level space sponsored by Maquette Fine Art Services and Marshfield Associates, and an artist-activated "Experiences Lounge" with immersive installations by Katie Magician, Arma Dura, and Theo Morrow sponsored by Javan Wellness. Guests will also enjoy a special performance by iconic Washington, DC-based performance artist, singer, and drag artist Pussy Noir, presented in collaboration with DC's Barrel House Cafe & Bar, and a Mezzanine Level FlatFile Lounge, sponsored by Ned's Club.
Transformer is honored to have Dr. Ralf Heckner, Ambassador of Switzerland to the United States, & Dr. Ilaria Macconi Heckner as this year’s Gala Diplomatic Chair. This timely international collaboration with the Embassy of Switzerland in the United States furthers Transformer’s mission to advance important cultural connections for artists & audiences. Concurrently, Transformer will present A SPARK OF CONSCIOUSNESS: Healing the Soul by Swiss artist Laurence Elle Groux in her first solo exhibition, on view at Transformer’s 1404 P Street NW exhibition space October 10 through December 5, 2026.