Pia Truscott on meaningful making

We spoke to Pia about how anthropology informs her art, why scrap materials matter, and what advice she has for young artists trying to find their voice – and their space – in Cape Town’s evolving creative ecosystem.

Art through an anthropological lens

“My background in anthropology has made me more curious about the world, and consider the relationships between things,” Pia says. “I’ve learned to ask myself, ‘In which ways does…’ as a way of considering and holding multiple perspectives on the same thing.” This layered thinking echoes in her visual work. It also influences her studio process, which often begins with research and deep dives into how objects, surfaces, and materials carry meaning.

Mapping the ephemeral

Pia uses scrap paper – old newsprint and discarded maps – to create multi-layered, tactile compositions. Her process is intuitive and iterative: Painting, gluing, peeling, and repeating until a form begins to emerge.

“I’m interested in creating my own type of ‘maps’ – ones that are textured and layered, as opposed to traditional Western maps,” she explains. “My works are also reminiscent of possible street posters – surfaces that have been layered and peeled away over time, where things are ephemeral. They are constantly being rewritten and changed.”

Finding empathy in the overlooked

When asked what draws her to scrap materials, Pia says, “I was initially drawn to working with scrap material because it is so readily accessible, which takes the pressure away from working with something too ‘precious.”

But it’s more than just practical. Pia is interested in what she calls material empathy – a kind of care and attention given to items we typically discard. “I like scrap materials for their interesting textures and idiosyncratic marks, which have a big visual influence on my work.”

Alternative spaces, inclusive practices

Pia is equally thoughtful about where and how art is shown. She’s a strong advocate for alternative exhibition spaces like The Ramp in Cape Town. “The Ramp brings together a diverse range of makers: Furniture designers, metalsmiths, architects, artists, engineers and ceramicists, among others,” she says. “I’ve enjoyed exhibiting in various cultural events there. I’m very pro project spaces and pop-up exhibitions, which give artists a
chance to show their work.”

Building bonds

In Pia’s eyes, art is a connector. “Art can connect people in meaningful, hopeful ways. Art is its own language; it goes beyond words,” she says. “Sometimes art can have a way of expressing the inexpressible.” This belief in connection also fuels her commitment to community. “As an artist in my studio, it’s easy to feel like I’m working all alone, but that’s not the reality,” she explains. “There is a thriving art ecosystem in Cape Town with a strong arts community.”

When asked for her advice to younger artists, Pia says, “Make, make, make! Focus on making a body of work that you’re proud of. Share it with others, whether on social media or a pop-up exhibition. Do things yourself,” she says. “Apply for things and one day you might just get it. Above all, find the thing that gives you meaning and keep doing it. If what you create has meaning for you, it will resonate with others too.