Welcome to our new ‘Meet the Designer’ series where we would like to give you some insight into our team members. First up is Yuka Midorikawa, Director of Product Design here at Michael Graves Architecture & Design has been with the company for over 16 years. We asked Yuka to answer a couple questions to see what it is that drives her creativity.
If you were not a product designer, what would your alternate career be?
YM: I would be a ceramic artist. I love creating beautiful form with clay. The form transformation happens as if it flows out of my body like spring water. I love the magical process.
You just won a free trip, where would you go?
YM: I would go to Florence. I have been to Rome, Milan and Venice, but I have not visited Florence yet. I love the culture, food, people and the whole environment filled with amazing history.
If you could make one significant change in the world, what would it be?
YM: Make college tuition affordable for everyone
What languages do you speak?
YM: Japanese and English
Who is your design idol?
YM: I have so many… right now Jamie Hayon.
When you need inspiration where do you look?
YM: Nature, art, things from the past.
What do you believe is the most valuable trait as a designer?
YM: Empathy paired with a critical eye.