1. Experience the captivating essence of music through this abstract painting by Marcella Hayes Muhammad, showcasing a unique Plasticism style that immerses viewers in a rhythmic journey. 2. The artwork features the ancient Njarka instrument, symbolizing the foundational backbeat, while a harmonious blend of stringed instruments, including the piano, bass, violin, and guitar, creates a vibrant musical symphony that transcends time. 3. Originating from West Africa, the Njarka's historical significance as a precursor to the modern banjo is beautifully represented, inviting viewers to explore the deep-rooted connections between past and present musical traditions. 4. This painting not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Senegal, Gambia, and Guinea Bissau but also embodies the dynamic flow of sound, making it a striking addition to any art collection. This painting is the first of a series of musical pieces inspired by my exhibition at the Hammonds House Galleries in Atlanta, Georgia and possibly a traveling show later on. The theme of the show is to be "From Songhai to Symphony Hall". As I researched to find out a bit about music in the Songhai people of Africa, I discovered that it was once the greatest empire in all of Africa and greatly influenced by Islam. The music is centered from one particular instrument called a Njarka. It is a large gourd with a small hole carved into it and attached by a long neck with one string. This instrument is used to center the basic beat of all other instruments that were used in the development of music in the Songhai region. I took about three weeks to sketch out the idea after a week of research using only graphite to get the abstraction and balance right. I transferred the sketch to the canvas and began to add the oil colors. This took another three weeks until I was satisfied with the composition and balance if light and dark to keep the eye moving around the painting.