Derek Olive is a multifaceted artist whose fascinating journey has seen him write music for the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, become a frontline nurse, and most recently a documentary filmmaker.
With a Master's in Music Composition, Derek's artistic vision went from the concert hall, to the asphalt. His quest for the unconventional led him to undertake a cross-Canada bicycle tour to promote the David Suzuki Foundation's "Blue Dot Movement” following the release of his second CD “Mystery and Dust.”
Never afraid of a good plot twist, Derek took a sharp left into nursing where he would spend 6 years working in several Indigenous communities on the James Bay. His time as a frontline nurse was so formative that the plot would twist again, to him becoming a filmmaker. His experience as a nurse not only deepened his understanding of human connection but also honed his ability to ask poignant questions, it also taught him to shut up and listen.
Derek's directorial debut, "Little Feet Forever Running Silently," showcased his adept storytelling skills. An official selection for Canada Shorts - Canadian & International Short Film Fest, the documentary unveils the poignant struggles of Jean-Francois Harvey, a seasoned athlete and writer, facing his biggest challenge ever, grief and the loss of a child. With his dedication to storytelling, diverse artistic background, and unique perspective on the human experience, Derek's empathetic lens captures his subjects and audiences hearts.