Painted Pianos Project

Street pianos have been displayed as art in major cities through programs like the Play Me, I'm Yours program that debuted in the UK in 2008. Troy’s Painted Pianos Project began in 2021 and is now a biennual celebration, alternating with Troy Main Street’s Sculptures on the Square. 

Call for Artists

There will be approximately 6-8 pianos throughout the downtown from June 8th, 2026 – September 1, 2026. Each piano is part of a community art initiative that has occurred biennially. The theme for the designs this year will focus on the celebration of America’s 250th birthday known as America250. 

America250-Ohio’s mission is to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and the impact of Ohioans on the nation’s past, present, and future. Themes chosen by the America250-Ohio Commission for 2026 include: 

  • Ohio’s First and Originals
  • Ohio Entertains and Creates - Music, Entertainment, Arts, Culture, and Literature
  • Ohio Moves - Transportation
  • Ohio Outdoors - Exploring Ohio’s Natural Resources
  • Ohio Grows - Food and Farms 
  • Ohio Serves - Remembering Veterans, First Responders, and Frontline Heroes

Artists are invited to draft piano designs utilizing these themes that celebrate Ohio’s contributions. Interested artists are encouraged to contact taryn.smith@troyohio.gov as soon as possible.

Design Restrictions

All submitted designs must be appropriate for display in public spaces downtown and be suitable for audiences of all ages. General themes such as community, creativity, history, or abstract design are encouraged. All artwork should be respectful of the diverse cultures, identities, and perspectives within the community. Designs must be original artwork created by the submitting artist(s). Copyrighted characters, logos, or trademarks may not be used without proper approval from the owner. 

Designs shall not include:

  • Profanity, explicit language, or sexually suggestive imagery
  • Graphic or glorified violence, illegal activity, or drug use
  • Hate speech, discriminatory imagery, or content that targets or demeans any individual or group
  • Content that could reasonably be considered offensive, inflammatory, or divisive
  • Political messaging, campaign slogans, or references to elected officials, ballot measures, or political parties
  • Religious messaging that promotes or opposes a specific belief system
  • Advocacy messaging intended to persuade the public on social, political, or religious issues
  • Business names, product promotion, or other advertising 
  • Stereotypes, appropriation, or imagery that could be interpreted as insensitive
  • Any elements that interfere with the piano’s functionality or playability
  • Visual elements that create safety concerns (e.g., tripping hazards, misleading visual illusions, or obstructed keys)

Designs may include: 

  • Artist signatures but must be discreet and not resemble advertising

By submitting a design draft, artists acknowledge that:

  • Their participation is voluntary
  • The piano is donated property used for a public art project and the City cannot guarantee that artwork will be returned
  • Designs must comply with all program guidelines and local government standards
  • Submitted drafts must reasonably represent the final design
  • City staff and Planning Commission reserve the right to reject any submittals for any reason, and further reserve the right to request revisions to ensure alignment with community standards and project goals
  • Approval decisions are final
  • Significant changes from the approved draft must receive prior approval
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