Born in Caracas, Venezuela, in 1957, Marielena Leon began an approach to art studies at the age of seventeen with a focus on Interior Design.

In 1978, she moved to London, England, where fine arts studies began. In 1980, seeking a less conceptual and more academic approach to art, Marielena relocated to Paris, France. There, acceptance was granted at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, where years later, an MFA in Sculpture was obtained.

Upon returning to Caracas in 1986, she held the positions of Dean and Teacher for twelve years at the Centro Artístico Villasmil, the first professional school of design in Venezuela, founded by Marielena's mother over 40 years ago.

From 1998, she worked on a series of commisioned sculptures and restorations until 2004, when she relocated to the United States. Marielena currently lives in Winter Park Florida, where she continues to paint, sculpt, and teach.