Derrick Sides grew up at the end of a dead-end road in rural Randolph County.  He spent most of his days riding bikes, playing in the woods, and snacking on Little Debbie oatmeal pies. He took his first art classes at the Randolph Arts Guild (How to Draw Animals) and ever since has lived a life in pursuit of creative endeavors.  Derrick took every art course offered at Randleman High School in addition to actively participating in the Marching Band and Jazz Band, and somewhat less actively participating on the Golf team.  He continued his education at Appalachian State University or as he affectionately refers to it, the University of North Carolina at Tweetsie.  He graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.F.A. in Painting and Sculpture and a Minor in Business.  He has worked in non-profit arts administration for the past ten years and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Randolph Arts Guild.  He and his wife Brooke make their home in Asheboro, NC with their daughter Olive, their miniature schnauzer Ernie and a dog name Duncan who they just found out is a “morkie”.