Nora Chapa Mendoza grew up in Texas and later studied at Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan, the Birmingham and Bloomfield Art Association, and the Center for Creative Studies in Detroit. Both in her art and in her life, she has been involved in and a supporter of Latino migrant workers, indigenous, and women's affairs. Notably, César Chávez commissioned a design from her to use as a greeting card for the United Farm Workers of America's Children in the Fields Program. She has spent time in Chiapas, Mexico, and has exhibited in countries such as Cuba and Egypt. She has taught numerous community workshops and classes and has recieved a number of awards, including Michigan Artist of the Year Award as well as Michigan Governor's Arts Award for her contributions to Michigan's cultural life and her dedication to the southwest Detroit arts community. Her works are widely collected and are held by singer Aretha Franklin, actor Edward James Olmos, former president of General Motors, Jack Smith as well as are in the corporate collections of General Motors, Ford, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield.