With the Atoms sculptures, Derric experimented with Bauhaus principles and abstract thoughts bound in culture and personal experiences, testing and observing, settling into an appropriate direction for each body of work overtime. Living near heavy industry in South Chicago and its natural surroundings, its brown and black people added context. His undeniable African, Native, Aztec and European diversity heavily influenced his intuitions going forward. These influences became an “Amalgam” for discussion of what he calls
Proper Identity”, coming to understand  one’s self in society.