We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Derrick Waller a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Derrick, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
Growing up, my parents provided me with an invaluable gift: the freedom to dream and explore. From a young age, they instilled in me a sense of curiosity and encouraged me to pursue my interests wholeheartedly. Whether it was through books, travel, or simply conversations around the dinner table, they created an environment where imagination and exploration were celebrated.
Their unwavering support allowed me to envision possibilities beyond the confines of my immediate surroundings and to embrace new experiences with enthusiasm. They taught me the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone towards growth and never stifled my aspirations, no matter how ambitious they may have seemed.
Thanks to their guidance and encouragement, I developed a deep-seated belief in the power of dreaming big and the importance of exploring the unknown. This upbringing has shaped not only my personal journey but also my approach to life and learning. I am forever grateful for the foundation they laid, which continues to inspire me to push boundaries, chase my dreams, and embrace the adventure of discovery.
I have lost both of them, but pray that they are looking down on me smiling.
Derrick, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m Derrick J. Waller, a photographer and painter based in Charlottesville, Virginia. I’m proud to be a founding member of the Charlottesville Black Arts Collective, and my work has had the honor of being featured nationally in outlets such as the New York Times, NPR, Runner’s World, Like the Wind Magazine, and Trail Runner Magazine. Locally, I’ve exhibited in various galleries and publications in Virginia, including the Second Street Gallery, McGuffey Arts Center, Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative, New City Arts Initiative, Welcome Gallery, Studio IX, Candela Books and Gallery, as well as in the CVille, Vinegar Hill Magazine, and Charlottesville Tomorrow.
When I’m not behind the camera or working on my art, you’ll find me cherishing moments with my beautiful wife, Sarah, and our children, Josephine, Warren, and Grace.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
The driving force behind my creative journey is the belief that everyone has a story worth telling, and I aim to convey those narratives through the medium of photography. Each individual carries a unique perspective, experiences, and emotions, which I seek to capture and share with the world. Through my lens, I want to shed light on the diversity of human experiences, celebrating the beauty, resilience, and complexity of life. My mission is to amplify voices, evoke empathy, and inspire connection through the visual storytelling power of photography.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Self-expression: Creating art allows you to express yourself in ways that words often cannot. It’s a means of conveying your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to the world, fostering a deeper understanding of yourself and your surroundings.
Legacy: Art has a timeless quality that allows it to transcend generations. Creating something that will outlive you can be incredibly fulfilling, knowing that your work may continue to inspire and resonate with others long after you’re gone.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.derrickjwaller.com
- Instagram: @wallerderrick
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-waller-0197987
Image Credits
Derrick J. Waller