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.