Canvas Commentary Podcast

Derek Jackson
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Visual Arts

Art isn’t just something you look at — it’s something you feel. Canvas Commentary Podcast brings you raw conversations with artists, creatives, and culture-makers as they unpack the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind their work. Expect bold opinions, creative energy, and conversations that go far beyond the canvas.

Episodes

  1. 3d ago

    Laura Thompson

    In this episode of Canvas Commentary, Derek Jackson sits down with mixed media and collage artist Laura Thompson. Laura creates surreal and playful “little worlds” by combining vintage magazine imagery with painted backgrounds, transforming familiar scenes into thought-provoking narratives filled with humor, curiosity, and unexpected connections. Together, they discuss Laura’s artistic journey, her creative process, and how themes of human connection, social justice, feminism, inclusion, and our relationship with the natural world find their way into her work. From cutting apart decades-old magazines to building imaginative visual stories, Laura shares what inspires her and why she believes art can invite both joy and reflection. Learn more about Laura's work at Real Creative Studio and follow her on Instagram at @realcreative.studio. Whether you're an artist, collector, or simply someone who enjoys creative conversations, this episode offers an engaging look inside the mind of an artist who finds wonder in the unexpected.

    56 min

  2. Jun 13

    Loring

    In this episode of Canvas Commentary, I sit down with Loring, a Harrisonburg-based artist, sculptor, and maker whose curiosity drives him to explore creativity through a wide range of mediums. From carving and sculpture to painting and mixed media, Loring transforms everyday materials into thoughtful works that reflect his experience of the world. Our conversation explores the creative process, the role of curiosity in making art, the connection between nature and inspiration, and the joy of bringing unexpected elements together to create something new. Whether you're an artist, a maker, or simply someone who appreciates creativity, you'll enjoy this engaging and insightful discussion. Follow Loring on Instagram: @one_big_dose Website: www.OneBigDose.com To learn more about Canvas Commentary or apply to be a guest, visit DerekJacksonArtist.com.

    37 min

  3. Jun 4

    Ann Baker

    In this episode, we sit down with artist and educator Ann Baker to talk about a lifetime devoted to art, teaching, and creativity. Ann earned her undergraduate degree in Art Education from Greensboro College and her MFA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She spent 20 years teaching high school art in Guilford County, North Carolina, helping generations of students discover their creative voices. After her husband's retirement, Ann returned to Harrisonburg, where she now works from her home studio and teaches private art lessons. We discuss her artistic journey, the rewards and challenges of teaching, how her work has evolved over the years, and what continues to inspire her today. Whether you're an artist, educator, or simply someone who appreciates creativity, this conversation offers insight into a life shaped by art and the joy of sharing it with others.

    33 min

  4. May 28

    Rob Barnard

    In this episode of Canvas Commentary Podcast, Derek Jackson sits down with potter and author Rob Barnard to talk about a lifetime dedicated to ceramics, philosophy, and the search for meaning through art. From studying in Kyoto, Japan under legendary ceramic artist Kazuo Yagi to building his studio practice in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Rob shares stories about pottery, writing, wood firing, and the role of functional art in modern life. The conversation explores creativity, craftsmanship, and how everyday objects can carry deep emotional and artistic significance. Follow Rob Barnard’s work on Instagram @rob__barnard__pottery and visit his website at Rob-Barnard.com.

    54 min

  5. May 22

    Joseph Goldfedder

    In this episode of Canvas Commentary, Derek Jackson sits down with artist and acupuncturist Joseph Goldfedder to explore the connection between art, energy, healing, and intuition. Joseph shares how his background in acupuncture, intuitive healing, and mediumship influences his creative process, leading to paintings filled with floating orbs, emerging faces, and powerful emotional energy. Together, they dive into the meaning behind his work, the idea of transformation through creativity, and the unseen forces that inspire his art. Follow Joseph Goldfedder on Instagram @JosephGoldFedder and explore more of his work at www.JosephGoldfedder.com.

    42 min

  6. May 14

    Bonnie McBee Fisher

    On this episode of Canvas Commentary Podcast, we sit down with the incredibly talented Bonnie McBee Fisher — artist, storyteller, and creative force behind @bonniemf.art. Bonnie shares the inspiration behind her work, her artistic journey, and the personal experiences that shape the emotion and energy found in her paintings. From creative breakthroughs to the challenges artists face behind the scenes, this conversation dives deep into what it truly means to create from the heart. We also explore the stories behind some of Bonnie’s favorite pieces, her evolving style, and the passion that continues to fuel her creativity every day. Whether you’re an artist, collector, or simply someone who loves hearing the stories behind meaningful art, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

    43 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Art isn’t just something you look at — it’s something you feel. Canvas Commentary Podcast brings you raw conversations with artists, creatives, and culture-makers as they unpack the stories, struggles, and inspirations behind their work. Expect bold opinions, creative energy, and conversations that go far beyond the canvas.

Information

  • Creator
    Derek Jackson
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Derek Jackson