DesignHER is a platform that celebrates the vision, craftsmanship, and innovation of women in design. By curating stories from leading female designers, artisans, and creatives, our latest series, in collaboration with Women Create, offers an intimate look at the diverse paths these women take to shape their industries and their own businesses. Through thoughtful interviews and features, the platform illuminates the artistry and technical mastery that define their work, while exploring the deeper narratives of creativity, resilience, and leadership. DesignHER honors the unique perspectives of women, fostering a community where design excellence and empowerment intersect to inspire the next generation of trailblazers.
Mika Street is a dynamic fine art photographer based in Mill Valley, California. Mika’s work celebrates the world’s beauty and is influenced by her global adventures, from the coastal wonders of Marin, Malibu and Big Sur to enchanting landscapes of Costa Rica and Turkey. Mika’s photography embodies the essence of each location she visits, capturing natural beauty with ethereal light and an innate appreciation for the world around her. Beyond her artistry, Mika is dedicated to giving back, with a portion of sales supporting various non-profit organizations tied to her travels, including, but not limited to, Marin Foster, Slide Ranch, Cambodia Children’s Fund, and WWF. Experience the world through Mika Street’s lens in today’s DesignHer.
aspire design and home: Can you discuss any female artists or designers who have influenced your work?
Mika Street: The first name that comes to mind is Dorothea Lange. I vividly remember the first time I saw her iconic image Migrant Mother. I was thumbing through my social studies book in 9th grade and was transfixed by that photo. I stared at it for ages and kept going back to it. Over the years, I’ve included it in inspiration boards and kept it near my workspace. There’s so much power in that image.
Of course, there are also more contemporary artists who inspire me daily — from local ceramists to jewelry makers. I’m always drawn to people who create with their hands. My goal is to study woodworking and eventually start making my own frames.
adh: What advice would you give to other women looking to enter the field of high-end artisanal crafts?
MS: My advice is simple: follow your dreams. Trust your instincts and pursue what truly inspires you. Embrace your unique perspective and creativity — they are invaluable assets in this field. Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded individuals, and don’t hesitate to seek mentorship and guidance. Challenges will arise, but persistence and passion will carry you through. Stay true to yourself, and let your craft flourish.
adh: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work?
MS: I am naturally motivated and have always loved the creative aspects of growing a business, so it doesn’t feel like work to me. Inspiration comes from everywhere. I find it in the work of other creatives, both within and outside the fields of landscape and seascape photography. I’m also inspired by the simple beauty of everyday moments — like watching cream swirl in my cup of black tea, which I drink from a glass mug to fully enjoy the experience.
Discovering extraordinary locations is another deep source of inspiration for me. When all my senses are engaged in absorbing a new environment, it fuels my creativity in unexpected ways.
adh: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career in high-end artisanal crafts?
MS: The most rewarding aspect is twofold. Professionally, I love seeing my work displayed in various settings such as homes, offices, and restaurants. It’s incredibly gratifying to know that someone appreciates my work enough to purchase and surround themselves with it. Personally, photography has connected me with fascinating people worldwide. Walking around with a camera often sparks conversations with individuals who might not otherwise engage. I treasure these relationships and conversations, as they have expanded my world and enriched my perspective.
“The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.” – Dorothea Lange
adh: How do you see technology influencing the future of artisanal crafts?
MS: While I can’t speak for all artisanal crafts, I can certainly address photography. AI can produce remarkable graphic work, and some might argue that photography is becoming obsolete, if it isn’t already. I often hear warnings about staying in the field. However, for me, photography is a meditative process. I love being in nature, which is where I usually shoot, and photography helps me fully appreciate my surroundings. Even if AI can replicate my work, I wouldn’t trade the authentic experience of being in nature for a computer-generated version. Hopefully, consumers will continue to value the genuine over the artificial and appreciate the incredible stories behind most images.
adh: Can you talk about a piece or project that holds special significance to you and why?
MS: My collection in Turkey holds a special place in my heart. I spent a year of my childhood living in Marmaris, Turkey, and the fond memories from that time have stayed with me. What stands out the most is the warmth of the people. Despite language and cultural differences, we were embraced as neighbors. One neighbor, Mehmed, would pick me up daily and walk with me to get fresh simit (bread). Even now, the smell of rosemary tea instantly transports me back to those days. Returning as an adult to capture the beauty of Turkey, I was once again filled with profound joy and appreciation for the kindness of the people. This collection is a testament to a place that holds a special significance to me.
adh: How do you approach the business side of your craft, such as marketing and sales?
MS: I find the business side of my work to be just as creatively enriching — different but equally creative. I’m constantly brainstorming fun collaborations and exploring ways to expand my reach. I particularly enjoy partnering with other female founders to discuss strategies for growing our businesses and audiences.
Like many, I encounter roadblocks in certain areas, especially with administrative tasks like accounting. Through my various ventures over the years, I’ve learned that it’s best to outsource the aspects I find challenging, allowing me to focus on what I love.
That said, sometimes what’s really required is a shift in perspective. When I first launched my business, I avoided social media and outsourced much of that work. Eventually, I realized that, for my type of business, I needed to show up authentically, even online. While I still don’t relish that part of my work, I’ve changed my mindset and am genuinely starting to enjoy it more.
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