Colour • Word • Shape • Sound
Based in Byron Bay, Francesca Von Reinhaart is a multidisciplinary artist whose practice is defined by an unconventional, raw, and uninhibited style. Her creative output currently spans painting, textiles, poetry and music Francesca is the founder and host of The Von Reinhaart Artist Podcast, a platform that engages a diverse range of artists through warm, unfiltered reflections,evocative storytelling,and genuine conversations about art, culture and life. A dedicated advocate for her birth place, Francesca serves as a cultural assistant focused on the preservation of the Savunese language. She is committed to translating and performing authentic traditional songs, alongside her own original compositions, to ensure the language remains a living legacy. Her community contributions are equally diverse; she is a former Bay FM 99.9 presenter, a professional artist model, and a ukulele mentor guiding beginners. She was instrumental in establishing the Byron Bay daily drumming circle at Sunset alongside its late founder, Wawan Prahara. Francesca continues to participate as a percussionist, fostering communal harmony and the intangible power of shared musical expression.
Francesca began her career as a tour guide, acting as a translator and facilitator for cross-cultural understanding while assisting both academic and non-academic groups. Upon request, she has represented the Savu Islands at a Byron Bay Harmony Day Festival, serving as a “living library” of Savunese cultural matters.
This passion for cultural work is rooted in her extensive experience as a guide. This foundation enabled her to become a linguistic bridge, providing essential translation for speakers of Kupang Lingua Franca (Omong Kupang) and Savunese. Her local knowledge became invaluable in assisting Dr Robert Bloomfield from the Natural History Museum, London, as he retraced the Endeavour voyage. Drawing on her guiding expertise, Francesca aided Dr Bloomfield in identifying and documenting Savunese flora using local nomenclature and photography, while advising on various cultural and historical matters.
Francesca’s universal interpretation of the Pater Noster, titled Laka Ae, is deeply rooted in her intimate relationship with nature. This rendition is recognised and used among Savunese speakers; similarly, her translation of the celebrated Christmas carol Silent Night, known as Məďa Milu, has attained significant popularity within the Savunese community.
She continues to provide expertise on Savunese cultural matters to foreigners and local residents alike.
Join Francesca as she welcomes artists for open discussions on art, life, Savunese oral history, culture, and related topics regarding the Savu Islands. Tune in to her podcast series for those insightful conversations.
