2018 Annual Guide: Falmouth

Photo by Paige Biviano

“I am very proud to be a part of this creative project,” says Rinaldo who knows too well the sting of losing a historic landmark. “My own house was razed to make room for development,” she explains. “I was too young, naive and inactive to take up the cause of preservation—even to think about it. That lesson haunts me to this day, and now my efforts go into making people aware of their town, village or community—its vulnerable landscape and historic character.”

Rinaldo can often be found sipping a cup of coffee at a downtown shop, watching a production at Woods Hole Theater, visiting Nobska Lighthouse, or walking along Old Stone Dock Beach and Surf Drive. She is inspired by the landscape of Cape Cod. “I am amazed at how intention can be found in places, how it reveals a sense of place worthy of protecting.”

Rinaldo is not only a passionate artist but also a passionate member of the Falmouth community. She participates in many nonprofit organizations and serves on four boards and two committees in her town. “I love the character of our business community, the involvement—both civic and social—from Main Street to the side streets. It is true that the positive efforts of one person can create a flow of optimism and good will throughout an area and beyond.” Rinaldo recently opened a second gallery in the heart of downtown with her business partner, Don Cross.

Whether she’s immersing herself in her community, a new project or simply her own thoughts, Rinaldo’s day always ends as it began: with creativity.

Allyson Plessner is the staff writer for Cape Cod Life Publications.