Transformer Presents: A Distinct Terroir Exhibition Open House

Date and Time

• Saturday, Feb 28, 2026  12pm - 6pm

Location

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Details

transformer presents..

A DISTINCT TERROIR

A FLATFILE EXHIBITION PRESENTED IN COLLABORATION
WITH THE FRIENDSHIP HEIGHTS ALLIANCE

Feb 28 — May 20, 2026

COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE:
Sat. February 28, 2026 | 12 — 6 PM
Meet the Artists Reception: 2 — 4 PM

Wednesday evening artist conversations and interactive workshops presented monthly on Saturdays! Free & Open to the public! RSVP requested; please RSVP here. 

SEE PROGRAMMING DETAILS BELOW

Launching a new partnership with the Friendship Heights Alliance, Transformer presents A Distinct Terroir, an exhibition showcasing a bounty of artists and creative styles from the DC area through the lens of our FlatFile collection. Launched in spring 2007, Transformer’s FlatFile is a dynamic and continually evolving collection of more than 400+ 2D artworks by over 40 artists. Each work measures 16" x 20" or smaller and is priced at $500 or below, making original local art accessible to a wide audience of collectors and community members.

‘Terroir’ refers to the set of factors that influence the unique character growth of a subject, including all the environmental factors that morph its characteristics and quality. It’s a holistic concept that considers not just the environment and climate, but also the topography, biodiversity, and human impact on a region. The DMV’s terroir, from its political importance to its Mid-Atlantic and Appalachian landscape, to its rich immigrant community, inspires each artist in a different way, making our local artists’ work distinctly topical.

A Distinct Terroir presents works both on the gallery walls and through innovative, artist-designed installation displays at The Heights Pop-Up Pavillion that invite visitors to browse selections from more than 300 FlatFile artworks. All artworks in the exhibition will be available for purchase. Throughout the run of the A Distinct Terroir, Transformer will present artist-led community programming, engaging audiences with Wednesday evening artist conversations, and through hands-on, interactive workshops presented monthly on Saturdays. These will include workshops on printmaking, mixed-media collage, and more to engage audiences of all ages in the creation of their own artworks. All workshops will be presented for free with materials provided.

The Pavilion Pop-Up, formerly a T-Mobile store, offers 2,113 square feet in the Chevy Chase Pavilion retail center. In fall 2025, the Friendship Heights Alliance transformed the space into a “third place” with a gallery, reading room, and lounge areas for creative and interactive programming. Open to the public multiple days a week, it provides a free, indoor gathering spot for the neighborhood. The Pavilion Pop-Up is at 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW, next to the office lobby; enter just to the right of Trader Joe's.

Exhibition Hours:

• Wednesdays & Thursdays 11 AM – 2 PM
• Saturdays 12 – 6 PM

Pavilion Pop-Up at The Heights Lobby 5335 Wisconsin Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015