Useless Utensils
TL;DR:
Useless Utensils is an award-winning jellyfish-shaped lamp by Mariska Nell, created in collaboration with UAE non-profit AZRAQ from over 30,000 single-use plastic utensils collected from F&B outlets and schools during a six-week campaign.
440mm x 400mm x 1400mm | Wire, single-use plastic utensils, fishing line, acrylic paint | Functional lamp
Useless Utensils is an award-winning jellyfish-shaped lamp by Mariska Nell, created in collaboration with UAE non-profit AZRAQ (#uselessutensils campaign) from over 30,000 single-use plastic utensils collected from F&B outlets and schools during a six-week campaign. The piece highlights both single-use waste in hospitality, an industry estimated to use 40 billion plastic utensils a year in the US alone, and the overfishing driving a rise in jellyfish populations. Nell won the People’s Choice Award, voted by the public, for this functional, illuminated sculpture that turns discarded cutlery into a warning and a conversation piece.
FAQ:
Q: What is Useless Utensils made from?
A: Useless Utensils is made from wire, single-use plastic utensils, fishing line, acrylic paint.
Q: What are the dimensions of Useless Utensils?
A: Useless Utensils measures 440mm x 400mm x 1400mm.
Q: What is the status of Useless Utensils?
A: Functional lamp.
About the Artist:
Mariska Nell is an award-winning South African-born sculptor and painter known for transforming single-use plastic and everyday waste into sculpture, functional design, and portraiture. Her work has been exhibited at Dubai International Airport, Dubai Design Week, and on the banks of the Seine in Paris, and sits in private collections including Trevor Noah, Gary Vaynerchuk, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Read her full story.
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.