A life well-lived and a legacy to cherish - that's the story of Marie Goodenough, an extraordinary woman who left an indelible mark on the world of art and beyond. At the age of 90, Marie passed away, leaving behind a rich tapestry of memories and a profound impact on those who knew her.
Marie was an artist through and through, with a prolific output that spanned painting and sculpture. Yet, she considered herself primarily a sculptor, with a unique and playful approach to her craft. Her work, often crafted from wood, papier-mâché, fibreglass, and metal, was a testament to her creativity and sense of humor. One of her notable pieces, "Boris Godunov," a wordplay masterpiece, was acquired by the Andrew Duncan Clinic in Edinburgh, while "Newspaperman," a tribute to art critic Edward Gage, was exhibited at the Royal Glasgow Institute, showcasing her range and talent.
Born in York, Marie was the only child of Selina and George Goodenough, a locomotive guard. Her childhood, though lonely at times, was a catalyst for her vivid imagination and love of literature. She learned the values of hard work and discipline, and her outspoken nature was always balanced with a deep interest in people and a strong sense of social justice, especially when it came to children.
Marie's artistic journey began at the Edinburgh College of Art, where she discovered her true calling. Her talent was recognized with numerous awards, including a major postgraduate travel award in 1958, which allowed her to embark on a year-long journey through Greece with her husband, Bert Wraith. They met as students working at the York Post Office during Christmas, and their love story blossomed into a lifelong partnership.
After teaching at Bishop Auckland College and Newcastle Polytechnic, Marie dedicated herself to raising her children, fostering a sense of family and community. In the late 1960s, she briefly fostered children, and in 1972, the family moved to the picturesque Warkworth, Northumberland, where Marie's artistic focus expanded to include natural forms, horses, and even Shakespeare.
Her work gained recognition through exhibitions at prestigious venues like the Royal Scottish Academy and the John Whibley Gallery in London. Marie's talent was celebrated with awards such as the RSA Ottilie Helen Wallace prize, and she actively participated in various artistic societies, including the Scottish Society of Women Artists and the Society of Botanical Artists. Her reach extended internationally, with an invitation to exhibit in Voerde, West Germany, in 1989, and she engaged with local schoolchildren for sculpture and book projects to mark the millennium.
But here's where it gets controversial... Marie wasn't just an artist; she was a multi-faceted individual with a passion for life. She was an accomplished plantswoman, an excellent cook, and had a keen interest in music, history, and film. In 2007, Marie and Bert moved to Exeter to be closer to their daughter, Louise, and they remained a devoted couple until their deaths, with Bert passing away from Parkinson's in 2025, and Marie battling Alzheimer's disease since 2013.
Marie's legacy lives on through her daughters, Louise and [your name], and her grandchildren, Kristen, Logan, Nathaniel, and Sadie. Her life serves as a reminder that art, family, and community can intertwine to create a beautiful and meaningful existence.
And this is the part most people miss... Marie's story is a testament to the power of creativity, the importance of family, and the impact one person can have on the world. So, what do you think? Is there a lesson to be learned from Marie's life? Feel free to share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!
