McKenna Petersen Perkins is a furniture maker, craftswoman, and artist who focuses on early American furniture and traditional European carving. Since early in life, McKenna has been drawn to hands-on learning and project-based work. After working for several years as a whitewater kayaking guide, she was accepted to attend the celebrated Fine Woodworking program at the North Bennet Street School. Located in Boston’s historic North End, NBSS is the United States’ oldest trade school. It has a rich tradition that focuses on old-world crafts such as Violin Making, Preservation Carpentry, and Fine Woodworking.
While in school, McKenna developed a passion for the more decorative forms of woodworking – carving and marquetery. She seeks out every opportunity to continue her experience and education with traditional carving. Upon receiving her degree, McKenna relocated back to Idaho Falls and began designing artistic pieces and taking small commissions.