Collage is an important stimulus in Nya’s work that features abstracted shapes of musical instruments. In this 2004 piece entitled “Retired Composer,” Nya’ employed unorthodox materials to order the components comprising his composition.

Established on multiple parallel lines while using a rich palette comprised of redemptive reds, celestial blues, burnt earth and a celebratory orange, the artist’s visual vocabulary stresses an unvarying respect of order and a keen understanding of material.

Optical illusion and trompe l'oeil, techniques reminiscent of the work of Pablo Picasso, George Braque and Jan Gris are also noticeable in this canvas grounded on plywood. In an exhibition held in 2010 entitled “Vowels of Faith,” Nya’ distinguished “Retired Composer” as one of his most captivating works from his series “Divine Inspiration.”

In essence, “Retired Composer,” compares the mystical alchemy and the unbreakable covenant between a musician and his instrument to the harmonious relationship a spirit-led visionary has with his divine assignment.