From Catwalk Model to Artist

International catwalk model Nora Bonavera rekindled her passion for art, transitioning into a full-time artist. She inspires not only with her elegant beauty but also with her spectacular art, which brings joy and happiness to all who encounter it.

International catwalk and photographic model, and artist Nora Bonavera was born and educated in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. In 2018, she moved to Monaco, a place that inspired her with its playful, sunny atmosphere and the joyful spirit of its people.

What is your first memory of Monaco?

“It’s a wonderful memory. I was about 18, on holiday at the Cote d’Azur, and we decided to spend the day in Monaco. I remember we stopped the car just off the highway and looked down on le Rocher. It felt truly special and I wondered what it would be like to live in such a beautiful place. 

We spent the day roaming around Monaco, and it was glorious and I felt an inexplicable sense of peace.”

Nora did not know at the time that just a few years later, she would call Monaco her home.

Thanks to her career as an international model, Nora has lived in several international cities around the world, including Paris, France; Lake Como, Italy; and Cape Town, South Africa.

How would you compare your previous homes to Monaco, and why did the Principality of Monaco capture your heart in the end?

“If I compare Monaco to other places I’ve lived in the world, Monaco has a charm that’s hard to match. I find that the blend of sunshine, stunning Mediterranean views, a luxurious lifestyle and a vibrant cultural scene invigorating. The annual events, from the Grand Prix to art exhibitions, really brings people together and offers opportunities to engage with creative minds. 

Another very important factor I cherish is the sense of safety. I can walk home late at night wearing precious jewels, knowing I’m totally safe.

If I compare Monaco’s unique appeal to other cities I would say the compact nature of this city makes it easier to navigate and enjoy everything it has to offer, from luxury shops, fine dining to beautiful beaches and cultural events.”

After working as a photographic model for many magazines across Europe, Nora moved to South Africa to continue her career in modeling.

Can you describe your journey to becoming a painter?

“I always loved to draw and paint from when I was a small child. My transition from modelling to art was more a natural evolution from the fast paced, outside modelling world to a quiet, introspective soul discovery through my passion for art. 

I enrolled in art courses at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, where I was living at the time, and was invited participate in art exhibitions, and eventually have solo exhibitions.”

Was it an easy transition from being a model to becoming an artist?

“It was a natural progression as I started having children and my focus changed. It was lovely to have the time to paint, express myself, and be with my family. My children often played in my studio in the garden while I painted. There were also periods I didn’t do anything, life is all about balance.”

How would you describe art from the perspective of the artist?

“Art is the personal expression and interpretation of the artist’s unique perspective, emotions and experiences. The subject matter conveys a deeper meaning that resonates with the viewer on various levels, that’s why a painting is not just a visual representation, it evokes, provokes and inspires.”

In Nora’s paintings light, happiness, movement, emotions, soul channelings and universal influences all play a part in her works, which exudes liveliness with its bright colors. Her primary source of inspiration are the wonderfully blooming flowers.

Why did you choose floral paintings as your primary subject matter?

“Flowers allow me to express my process in finding happiness. They bring happiness and joy,” – smiles Nora. – “I also create soul portraits for my clients. When I paint a soul portrait, I begin the process by meditating with or for the client. I translate the images I see and the emotions I feel during the meditation onto canvas. The result takes the client on a deep healing journey simply by looking at the painting.“

What is your favorite flower?

“Definitely the rose. I love roses in all shapes and sizes. I also adore lilies. Those are my two favorite ones.”

What materials and techniques do you prefer to use, and how have they evolved over the course of your career?

“I have been drawing since I was very young. Initially, I used watercolors, but I found them too restrictive. I experimented a lot and discovered acrylics. Acrylic is a perfect medium for me because it dries quickly, and I’m quite impatient,” – laughs Nora. – “I usually work on canvas or wooden panels—these materials are wonderful because they allow me to revisit my work, applying a fresh perspective each time. It helps me bring my ideas to life.”

What is the source of your creative inspirations?

“My inspiration comes from a variety of sources. Nature is of course, an important, ever-changing source, with its magnificent colors, shapes and light. Also everyday life, emotions and work from other artists inspires me. I meditate frequently, and that’s where it takes the shape I can develop on canvas. If I get stuck, I usually put the painting in a place where I can see it multiple times a day until it becomes clear to me on how to proceed. I also meditate for more clarity.”

Is there a particular painting that holds special meaning for you?

“Yes, it is actually a self-portrait I made recently. It’s not technically perfect, but very vulnerable. It marked the beginning of a new phase in my life, an uncovering of personal flaws, celebrating authenticity and emotional depth. 

I can see the insecurity in “trying to get it right”, but what came out was a truer reflection of myself. This turning point in my life and work and shows the transformative power of art as a means of self discovery, revealing the jewel within.”

People often believe that being an artist is just another day-to-day job where you can create with a daily schedule. How do you handle creative blocks or periods when you feel uninspired?

“It’s a combination of discipline and inspiration. If there’s inspiration, discipline to work follows, but if there’s no inspiration, the discipline to work on anything every day eventually creates inspiration again. Meditation helps me to clear creative blocks.

I had a realization during a poetry course at the University Of Cape Town (UCT) that all artists are essentially searching for their own truth, and the by-product of that introspective process is art, in all its forms, be it on canvas, in music, words etc. This process can be torturing, as most artist are extremely sensitive eg Vincent Van Gogh.”

Do you think it’s important for a country to actively promote the arts?

“Promoting art is essential as as it breaks boundaries, offers fresh perspectives, challenges societal norms and belief systems. In Monaco, a lot has been done to promote art and artists. 

There are exhibitions all year round, not only featuring established artists but also providing a platform for emerging talent. Major events like the summer exhibitions at the Grimaldi Forum, featuring artists such as Claude Monet and J.M.W. Turner, are just a few examples. 

In other cities, you’d have to wait days to get tickets for such events, but here in Monaco, you can just go and truly immerse yourself in art. Such a treat.”

In 2024, you exhibited at The Art and Luxury Fair, an exhibition under the High Patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco, at the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo.

What was your experience about it and the appreciation of art from the visitors?

“It was a fantastic experience to exhibit together with other local artists in Monaco. The organizers created a special kind of exhibition, where the artists were not only present but actively working. Instead of a static, almost dull exhibition, it was interactive, and I loved that.”

Did you also paint live?

“Yes, I painted live and interacted with the public, it was a unique experience—people asked me about my process and artistic concept, and I really enjoyed it. It was a beautiful event.”

After living different places during your career, was it difficult to adjust to the lifestyle in Monaco?

“It was actually easy. Monaco has everything a big city offers, just on a smaller scale. If you want to party, go to cultural events, or simply relax on the beach, Monaco has it all. It may not be as quiet as Lake Como, but it’s perfect for retreating. I often go for walks and find peace here as well.”

It is interesting to observe that many exhibitions in Monaco feature emerging women artists. It seems like more women choose art compared to men.

How do you experience being a woman artist today?

“Art has a unique ability to transcend traditional believe systems and challenge societal norms. 

As a woman artist today, I experience the art world as more inclusive than before. I see whole exhibitions dedicated to women artists. Women offer a different perspective, and its important to embrace that. It adds depth to our work.”

Do you ever miss modeling?

“I really enjoyed it while I worked, but I don’t miss it anymore. It was an opportunity to travel to many countries, experience new cultures, and meet people. It was a wonderful period of my life, but I have a lovely life now. Modeling is a completely different lifestyle compared to art. Being an artist offers me a more relaxing, enjoyable, and pleasant life.”

Who is your favorite artist, and how has their work influenced your own?

“It’s quite a cliché, but Claude Monet is truly one of my favorites. His use of color and the freedom with which he painted was revolutionary for his time, and his work is still incredibly appealing today.”

One of Monet’s famous paintings, the “The Castle of Dolceacqua” was created just around the footsteps of Monaco, in the magical medieval village of Dolceacqua

Monet first discovered Dolceacqua during a summer trip in 1883 with his friend and fellow artist Auguste Renoir. He immediately fell in love with the compelling perspectives and visuals offered up by one of Italy’s officially most beautiful villages.

In January 1884, Monet returned to Dolceacqua with his painting supplies. He spent hours observing the shifting light and shadow over the bridge, Ponte Vecchio; and the narrow lanes and the watchful twin towers of Doria Castle above. In his writings, Monet called the Ponte Vecchio “a jewel of lightness”.

“Two years ago I had a chance to visit Dolceacqua,” – continues Nora. – “It was a transformational moment for me to stand in front of the Ponte Vecchio bridge and look at the same view that my favorite artist did centuries ago. Monet captured it so beautifully, and people can still relate to that.”

What advice would you give to aspiring painters who are just starting out on their artistic journeys?

“Don’t overthink your career. Just start painting straight from the heart, because that’s the authentic creative flow, the purest form of art. It will resonate with someone else’s heart, their feelings and experiences, which attracts them to your work.

Stay connected to yourself and don’t focus too much on what the world expects from you. Instead, think about what you can bring to the world. 

That’s the most important thing an artist can do. In the beginning, you might not be appreciated or successful, but once you overcome the fear of vulnerability, you’ll be able to rediscover your true self and bare your soul to the world. 

The journey of an artist is hard, but it’s also a beautiful and transformational path to rediscover our inner beauty. It’s about how you navigate life and relationships, while developing the confidence to believe in yourself.”

In 2025, Nora will be holding exhibitions in both Monaco and the Netherlands. She will also exhibit on the next edition of The Art and Luxury Fair (26-28 September, 2025) at the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo. 

Nora is also planning to offer art workshops for those who are interested in exploring their inner creativity and the artistic process.