TROY, OHIO – [February 12, 2026] – I.D.E.A. Troy, in collaboration with the Troy-Hayner Cultural Center and with curation assistance from The Troy Historical Society, is pleased to announce an upcoming exhibition at the Hayner dedicated to celebrating the rich, often untold history of African American art and music in Troy and the surrounding region. Local residents are called upon to share their stories and loan historical artifacts to help curate a vibrant and community-driven exhibit that honors this legacy. Artifacts selected for display will accompany an upcoming exhibit, Rhythm of Change: The Transformative Power of Black Art, which will be on view at the Hayner from June 12 through August 9.

From gospel music in local churches to jazz performances, funk concerts, school band memories, and soulful backyard gatherings, music has been a cornerstone of local and regional culture. I.D.E.A. Troy seeks to preserve this history by highlighting the people and experiences that have shaped Troy’s musical landscape.

Seeking Artifacts & Memories I.D.E.A. Troy is looking for items of historical significance for inclusion in the exhibit, including, but not limited to:

· Photographs: Photos of church choirs, community bands, jazz ensembles, street performers, or local residents creating and listening to music.

· Instruments: Instruments used by local musicians.

· Apparel: Band uniforms, choir robes, performance costumes, or concert t-shirts.

· Memorabilia: Concert programs, flyers, posters, or vinyl records from local/regional artists.

· Stories: Recorded narratives or written accounts of musical experiences in the community.

I.D.E.A. Troy was established in 2023 to promote inclusion, diversity, and equity within the city of Troy and to raise awareness about the experiences of all Troy residents. "I.D.E.A. Troy is excited to share the story of Troy’s Black community through the lens of art and music," says Sonia Holycross, I.D.E.A. Troy committee member. "We believe this exhibit will strengthen our community’s understanding of its diverse roots, and we invite the community to join us in bringing this story to life."

How to Lend Items Residents interested in lending items or learning more about the exhibit display and return process are asked to contact Sonia Holycross of I.D.E.A. Troy (soniaholycross@gmail.com or 937-216-1770) or Chris Manning of The Troy Historical Society (mchrismanning@gmail.com or 253-985-0415) by March 1. Lenders will be provided documentation to guarantee return of all loaned materials in the condition they were received.

For more information, contact Chris Manning at (253) 985-0415 or at mchrismanning@gmail.com