Born and raised in Billings, Montana, Marie's early life was marked by a nomadic existence, with her family relocating to various cities throughout her childhood. Despite this transient upbringing, Marie has always maintained a strong sense of identity as a true Montanan, a connection that was cemented by her birth, graduation, and adoption at the age of 16 out of foster care, officially adopting the surname Lorraine Burke (formerly Marie Schollaert).
This formative journey has had a profound impact on Marie's artistic trajectory, shaping her perspective and informing the creative expression that has become synonymous with her name.