Derik grew up very involved in the Performing Arts.  His youth was spent in plays, choirs, and discovering the flute.  After numerous failed attempts at physical sports, he decided that the Arts were his calling.  High school brought on solo singing and dance.  College led him to Opera, American Musicals, and an unexpected medium: photography.  Being a Libra, striving for harmony and balance were always very important.  Derik began shooting headshots for his fellow performers in college.  At the time, he also discovered a new form for art in cosmetics.  Once learning Photoshop, he knew his photography package was complete.  But there were other passions in need of attention.

After spending some time at college as a Dance Major with a Musical Theater Minor, Derik fled to New York City to pursue his love of performing.  While struggling in the city, he had the fortunate experience to befriend and learn from renowned makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin.  Derik fought the urge to sell his camera for food money and continued auditioning until finally his work paid off.  He landed the National Touring Production of CHICAGO. With a lot of time on his hands and surrounded by beautiful and talented performers, Derik fine-tuned his skills as a makeup artist and photographer.  Finishing CHICAGO brought him to Los Angeles to pursue his photography full-time. As destiny would have it, within a year he was off to Las Vegas, dancing in shows at night and shooting photos during the day.

Due to some sudden changes in Las Vegas, Derik began a very intense spiritual journey.  He turned his attention to the mind-body world, combining his love for the body with his love for harmony and balance.  Being a professional dancer for many years had taken a huge toll on his body.  While in Los Angeles, Derik discovered the amazing benefits of Pilates.  He knew he was destined to be a Pilates instructor, but the opportunity had not been presented... until now. In 2006 after a successful fight with cancer, Derik began his new journey towards mind-body health and awareness.  He was certified in Pilates through Body Arts and Science International and also received his ZUMBA instructor certification. Derik still has a ceaseless passion for creating art with his camera and makeup.  He currently lives in Seattle with his partner Al and their Shiba Inu, Teddy.