Nanybel -- originally from Caracas, Venezuela -- began drawing and painting at the tender age of five. Her grandmother, also a gifted artist, nicknamed the budding artist "Nanybel" (short for Nancy Isabel).
Nanybel moved to Paris, France to study architecture and the French language at La Sorbonne University and the private art college Académie Charpentier. Her love of art (especially portraiture) eclipsed her formal studies and gradually became her life's work.
Nanybel returned to Venezuela and was commissioned to produce several portraits of Pope John Paul II, one of which was selected for lithographs, bookmarks and calendars marking the Pontiff's first official visit to her country.
In 1996 Nanybel moved to the United States and quickly earned a reputation for her portraiture, winning several fine art awards while also painting portraits of icons in industry, sports and the entertainment world.
Copyright (c) 2011 Portraits by Nanybel
