About

William “Troy” Henley is an American artist originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At age 10, he moved with his family to Lawnside, New Jersey, where his artistic journey truly began. From a young age, Troy filled sketchpads with imaginative drawings—often sketching himself crossing the finish line in first place. This recurring image turned prophetic, as he became a standout sprinter in both high school and college.

In 1982, Troy set a 100-meter dash record at his high school with a time of 10.4 seconds—a record that still stands today. He went on to earn a track scholarship to Ohio University, where he graduated with a degree in Fine Arts.

After college, Troy sold a few pieces of art and participated in exhibitions in New Jersey, Ohio, and Atlanta. However, his focus shifted toward a range of professional roles, including work in sales, co-owning a restaurant, and serving as a mental health support counselor and mentor.

Now based in Hampton, Virginia, Troy is a high school art teacher. While passionate about teaching, he has also renewed his focus on his own artistic development. He actively creates and sells original works and prints, many of which explore his love for Surrealism. Troy believes Surrealism opens the door to deeper thinking, transforming ordinary themes like love, history, and music into extraordinary visual experiences.

Troy works with a variety of media including colored pencils, graphite, charcoal powder, acrylic paint, and digital tools. He has completed commissioned projects such as murals, custom portraits, and other visual works for individuals, schools, churches, and businesses.

A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. since 1988, Troy continues to blend his talents, experiences, and creativity into work that inspires, challenges, and connects with others.