


About Marie McDonough:
Marie McDonough is a dedicated woodcarver and pyrographer whose artistic journey began in the 1980s. She learned the fundamentals of woodcarving while working alongside a master carver for six months—a formative path, teaching herself new techniques and developing a style that reflects her independent, “bullheaded” spirit. Marie has never been one for formal classes; she prefers to experiment, explore, and discover her own way forward.
Most of her work and her passion is wildlife, but she is always up for a good challenge. She says one of her most difficult carvings was the commission of a cervical spine for her Chiropractor.
She has been involved with Wood Carvers Congress for over 10 years, including president for a few years. She has competed and won several ribbons with her wildlife carvings.
This year she is proud to be part of the instructors teaching at Congress. She will be teaching Pyrography in a 2-day and a 3-day class.
Although she doesn’t enjoy taking classes, Marie loves teaching them. Her approach centers on encouraging students to embrace their own creativity and originality. She provides guidance, technique, and support while allowing each person’s unique vision to shine through. Her goal is always the same: to help every student create a finished piece that feels personal, meaningful, and unmistakably theirs.