Desert Rose
TL;DR:
Desert Rose is Mariska Nell’s tribute to the camels of the UAE, named after Sting’s song and inspired by a camping trip where she witnessed first-hand the plastic waste left scattered across the desert.
280mm x 220mm | Paper, Nespresso capsules | Mixed-medium wall piece
Desert Rose is Mariska Nell’s tribute to the camels of the UAE, named after Sting’s song and inspired by a camping trip where she witnessed first-hand the plastic waste left scattered across the desert. One in two camels dies from consuming plastic, a statistic that shapes this piece, in which a camel wrapped in single-use aluminium Nespresso capsules is surrounded by rose-shaped capsule blooms. The work asks viewers to see the desert, and the wildlife that calls it home, with fresh respect.
FAQ:
Q: What is Desert Rose made from?
A: Desert Rose is made from paper, Nespresso capsules.
Q: What are the dimensions of Desert Rose?
A: Desert Rose measures 280mm x 220mm.
Q: What this inspired by the UAE camels?
A: Yes, Mariska has called the UAE home for many years.
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.