Home Is Where the Art Is

Visiting Michaela Rinaldi

On this laidback, velvety-clouded Cape Town afternoon, she and her three boys are enjoying the bliss of family connection. Today’s menu is homemade burgers and chocolate mousse cake. With a sip of champagne.

Michaela always knew she would be a painter. Although she maintains that presence, soul, and hard work have ensured her success as an artist, this home and its view plays a huge part in inspiring her creativity.

HOMELY COMFORTS Michaela’s home is modern, bright and relaxed – a far cry from the derelict single-storey house she originally bought before transforming it into a practical paradise.

The bedrooms are situated on the ground level, shaded by lavender and plumbago bushes and fronted by a pool surrounded by wooden decking. The front gate is seldom used, as entry via the double garage – well organised with hooks and shelves to store surfing equipment – takes preference, and leads one outside beneath emerald foliage.

Entertainment and the flow of ideas happens in the enormous upstairs hub with its balcony and spectacular glass-fronted views of beach, mountain, sky and birds. An expansive, low stretch sofa encourages meditative quiet time, movie watching or listening to music.

It’s about ambience and comfort up here. Fairy lights and lampshades provide atmosphere when the downlights are not in focus. Michaela’s work hangs from picture rails on every wall space, filling the rooms with charcoal figures and layered colour bursts.

FAMILY INSPIRATION Michaela proposes a toast to her eldest son Jason’s latest album release, and to middle son Carl’s new business venture, in which she is also involved. He hand-shapes surfboards, and she splashes on a fun retro touch. Already there is a waiting list and a sudden rush for production.

Michaela’s solo exhibition is also coming up. Some of the easels alongside the fireplace exude vibrancy and reflects the freer phase of her artistic creativity.

Finally, a cheers to 11-year-old Luca who made the supper. It is delicious!

Visit www.michaelarinaldi.com for more information.