Nancy was born near Patjarr at a place called Pandaltjarra where she lived a traditional life into early adulthood. She is included in video footage taken by Ian Dunlop in 1965 filmed at Patjarr Creek. She was married to the late Aubrey Carnegie and has two surviving children, Jodie and Paul Carnegie, with extended grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nancy paints Tjakura dreaming, (which is associated with her birthplace), Seven Sisters, Tatjarr and the country of Patjarr. She is a prolific painter and avid hunter, often leaving Patjarr on foot to pursue tinka (goanna) in the remote Pila Nature Reserve. Nancy is currently the chairperson for Patjarr community and represents Patjarrās interests as a director with Warakurna Artists.