In this episode of Canvas Commentary, host Derek Jackson sits down with figurative painter and printmaker John Fitzsimmons. With more than sixty years dedicated to art, John shares his thoughts on the lifelong pursuit of painting, the role of the human figure in his work, and the creative questions that continue to drive him into the studio every day.

The conversation explores John's artistic journey, his approach to figurative painting, the relationship between painting and printmaking, and his belief that some ideas and emotions can only be expressed through images rather than words. From his influences and creative process to the challenges and rewards of a life devoted to art, this episode offers an insightful look into the mind of a veteran artist.

Learn more about John and view his work at JohnFitzsimmonsArt.com

Follow John on Instagram: @johnfitzsimmons99

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share Canvas Commentary. Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Visit DerekJacksonArtist.com and apply through the Canvas Commentary Podcast page.

Maria Schechter (@Soil2Surface) joins the Canvas Commentary Podcast for a fascinating conversation about bio art, sustainability, and the relationship between creativity and the natural world.

Known for creating dimensional paintings and sculptures from mycelium, natural pigments, foraged materials, and living organic processes, Maria shares how her artistic journey evolved from traditional painting into an innovative practice that bridges art, ecology, and environmental stewardship. We discuss the power of natural color, the stories hidden within the landscape, and how art can inspire people to reconnect with the world around them.

Throughout our conversation, Maria reflects on her creative process, the importance of curiosity, and the ways artists can help shape conversations about sustainability and our shared future. It was a pleasure hearing her insights and learning more about the remarkable work she is creating through Soil2Surface.

Follow Maria on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok: @Soil2Surface

In this episode of Canvas Commentary, I sit down with multidisciplinary artist Taira Rice (@jug.nyc), whose vibrant work celebrates Black women through painting, illustration, and storytelling. Inspired by her Dominican and African American heritage, Taira creates imaginative worlds that explore identity, femininity, nostalgia, and joy.

Our conversation moves beyond the canvas as we discuss the connection between art and movies, the stories that inspire creativity, and how visual storytelling shapes the way we see the world. Taira shares insights into her artistic journey, influences, and the themes that continue to drive her work.

It was a pleasure talking with Taira, and I’m excited to share this thoughtful and engaging conversation with you.

In this episode of Canvas Commentary, Derek Jackson sits down with abstract artist Patricia Dattoma to discuss the influence of New York City on her creative practice. Patricia shares how the energy, movement, and diversity of urban life inspire her layered paintings, and how she balances intuition, structure, and emotion on the canvas. Join us for a conversation about artistic process, inspiration, and finding harmony within complexity.

Follow Patricia's work on Instagram: @patricia_dattoma.art

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.