Derek Jackson
Artist based in Harrisonburg, Virginia
ABOUT
Derek Jackson is a Pop artist based in Harrisonburg, Virginia, whose work explores themes of loneliness, longing, and nostalgia through a vibrant, sugar-coated aesthetic. Though he took a few art classes in high school, Jackson is largely self-taught, honing his skills in acrylic painting, pottery, and glassblowing since childhood. Over the past two years, he has been building his career as an artist, pushing his craft further by enrolling in the Visionary Art Collective’s Glow Up Program, led by Victoria J. Fry.
ARTIST STATEMENT
Jackson’s work examines the overwhelming culture of opinions in today’s society and its impact on how we experience both art and the world around us. As technology advances, we are constantly bombarded with viewpoints—people feel compelled to comment, critique, and analyze everything, from the trivial to the profound. This constant stream of opinions creates a culture where art is no longer simply seen or felt but is endlessly debated and misinterpreted before its meaning has a chance to resonate.
His paintings present a dual narrative: the external noise surrounding the work and the deeper, personal meaning within. Using bold colors and playful 3D talk bubbles, Jackson captures the overstimulation of modern life, reflecting the way rapid-fire opinions can obscure deeper connections and diminish the space for introspection. Through techniques like dry brushing, underpainting, and color blocking with quick-drying acrylics, he creates layered pieces that contrast bright, attention-grabbing aesthetics with underlying themes of emotional depth. The resulting tension mirrors how social media and digital discourse affect our ability to engage with art on a personal level.
Ultimately, Jackson’s art invites viewers to pause and reconsider how they engage with both art and the world. By confronting the overwhelming visual and conceptual elements in his work, he challenges audiences to reflect on the culture of constant judgment and asks: Are we losing the ability to experience art—and life—without immediate categorization or explanation? Can we still create space to truly see and feel beyond the noise of opinions? His goal is to challenge this culture, reminding us that art, like life, is meant to be experienced rather than instantly dissected.
Website: DerekJacksonArtist.com
Instagram: @DerekJacksonArtist