I am currently at a transitional stage in my career, where I’m shifting from a background in contemporary art to expanding my practice into the world of interior design. As Mariam Haji, I’ve had the honor of representing Bahrain at the Venice Biennale, which allowed me to gain recognition for my contemporary art. Now, with a new intercultural artist identity, I go by the name "Meri-Helmi Särkkä" which means "Sea pearl from a salt water island" in Finnish. With this new name and my life in Finland, I’m excited to explore a new direction where I combine my love for the Khaleeji aesthetic with Scandinavian aesthetics, creating a unique look that I call "Scandarabian." To unlock my next level, I believe the key lies in further refining and defining this Scandarabian style. This will involve building a portfolio that bridges contemporary art and interior design, showcasing how I can bring cultural fusion to modern living spaces. Additionally, I am eager to collaborate with designers, brands, and cultural institutions that align with my vision. Expanding my skills in design and engaging with a broader audience—one that extends beyond the contemporary art world—will help me fully realize this next phase of my career.

I believe I bring a unique perspective to the 1833 Club as an artist and designer, merging Bahraini and Scandinavian influences to create a fresh and culturally rich aesthetic. Having represented Bahrain at the Venice Biennale and showcased my work at iconic Helsinki landmarks such as the Helsinki Cathedral and the UNESCO World Heritage site Suomenlinna Church, my experiences highlight my ability to blend tradition and innovation. My current journey into interior design positions me at the crossroads of contemporary art and creative entrepreneurship. The club’s mission to connect creative thinkers and business leaders aligns perfectly with my goal of building collaborations and expanding the reach of my "Scandarabian" style. By joining, I can both contribute to and benefit from the diverse community, gaining insights from fellow creatives while sharing my passion for cross-cultural design innovation.

I have a deep passion for art and design, with my creative interests ranging from contemporary art to interiors. I am inspired by blending my Bahraini heritage with the minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian design, a concept I’ve come to think of as “Scandarabian.” This fusion allows me to explore both the richness of khaleeji patterns, colors, and textures alongside the simplicity and functionality of Scandinavian aesthetics. In my free time, I enjoy visiting museums, attending cultural events, and engaging in activities that involve my family, especially my children. I believe art should be accessible and engaging for all audiences, including young minds, so I’m always exploring ways to incorporate playfulness and learning into my work. My free time is an extension of my creative practice.