This fall, the Biggs Museum of American Art will spotlight Delaware State University (DSU) and its celebrated marching band as part of a museum-wide celebration of HBCU culture, anchored by the exhibition Keith Duncan: Battle of the Bands, The HBCU Marching Bands Series. 

On view from September 4, 2025 through January 25, 2026, Battle of the Bands features 45 large-scale fabric paintings and works on paper by acclaimed New Orleans-based artist Keith Duncan. These vibrant compositions bring to life the pageantry, tradition, and community pride of fifteen Southern HBCU marching bands and their drum majors. 

Alongside this major exhibition, the Biggs will host Echoes of the Storm, on view September 18, 2025 through January 11, 2026, focusing exclusively on the history and impact of the DSU Marching Band, Approaching Storm. This show will feature artwork created by DSU students, archival artifacts, and materials highlighting the university’s legacy as one of the nation’s top-ranked HBCUs. The exhibition opens with a community happy hour reception on September 18, 2025. 

The Biggs & DSU collaboration is rooted in student engagement and leadership. This fall, five DSU interns have joined The Biggs’ team, working across departments to gain real-world museum experience. In addition, seven DSU students are contributing directly to the development and installation of Echoes of the Storm, curating content, researching band history, and preparing materials for display. 

The celebration continues with a special live performance by the DSU Marching Band at The Biggs’ major annual fundraiser, a farm-to-table Harvest Party, on September 20, 2025. 

Together, Battle of the Bands and Echoes of the Storm offer a powerful look at the past, present, and future of HBCU marching band culture through world-class art and meaningful community partnerships.