Endorsements

  • "Several years ago, Lani McKay painted a portrait of my daughter from the photos that I took the day before she started kindergarten. Lani captured so much more than just my daughter’s likeness, more than just how perfectly she captured her features and expression- what strikes me about the painting is the way Lani infused the scene with pieces of her own artistic vision that somehow expressed everything that moment in the photo had meant to me, sending my youngest baby off to school the next day, the pride, the fear, the wonder of it all…words could never do it justice, I’m so thankful for the thousand words this picture speaks for me…I will treasure this portrait and the moment it preserved forever."

    Jen Mindlin

    Bellingham, Washington

  • “ With an unparalleled ability to seamlessly blend color, texture, and emotion, Lani McKay has breathed life into our space, creating an inviting and unique atmosphere that perfectly complements the warmth and flavor of our pizzas at Front Street Pizza.”

    Dave Beaton

    Missoula, Montana

  • “I worked with Lani on a mural project for the Paonia Creative District in the sweet town of Paonia, CO. Lani is not only an exceptionally talented artist but also a delightful person. She is a professional, self-starter, motivated, and delivered a beautiful product that has become an iconic piece of public art for our community to enjoy.“

    Susie Kaldis

    Paonia, Colorado

  • "I can always tell that Lani has put a great deal of thought and planning into her paintings. She has incredible technical skill but this does not limit her creativity. Her paintings are whimsical, often tender, and a joy to look at every day. She can come up with original concepts or take specific commissions and get at the heart of her client's vision."

    Susannah McLean

    Livingston, Montana

  • "If you are looking for an artist who will capture a wonderful reflection of a loved one, human or not, Lani is well worth finding and commissioning . She painted an amazing portrait of my daughter who had passed. Yes it reflects an accurate image of her but also the image I have for her that I carry in my soul.“

    Kay Birukoff

    Albuquerque, New Mexico

  • “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lani McKay on several different projects throughout the years. Tattoo design, wedding invitations and several dog portraits. Not only is her art absolutely breathtaking, her attention to detail is exceptional. With a few questions, she is always able to capture the exact feel and flow for each of my projects. I cannot recommend Lani McKay enough. She is a super talented artist and I’m always in awe of her work."

    Kachina K

    Reno, Nevada

  • "Lani’s pet portraits were beautiful and spot on, showing the real character of our beloved pets. Her murals on my travel trailer and retaining wall are beautifully rendered and always garner admiration, attention and kind compliments. I would highly recommend her for custom portraits and murals."

    Anna McLain

    Livingston, Montana

  • "An amazing gift for someone who was truly having a hard time with the passing of her beloved pet. Such a special way to commemorate a very important furry friend."

    Heidi Matthews

    Springfield, New Jersey

  • “Lani McKay is an amazing artist and team leader. She has worked for The Learning Council for several years and continually creates fresh imagery that defines our work with amazing vision, style and sensitivity to the culture and movement that we are. Lani has created a logo for the Arbol Farmers Market, signage for safe and inclusive space and our Growing Together logo that spans many of our projects including DC CARES(Delta County Coalition Advocating for Radically Equitable Spaces) work in community building, Arbol Farmers Market, our Agricultural Classes and our advocacy work in the schools and local government. Lani has created beautiful murals here in Paonia, Colorado that are high quality, long lasting and beautiful representations of our rural agricultural community. She does her work very professionally and at the same time has such a kind way about her and amazing spirit that through our work together we became good friends. It was a sad day in Paonia when Lani moved north. We are dreaming about her return as she is such an incredible contributor to our community. I look forward to working with her again, and in the meantime she has left her mark on The Learning Council and we are better for it.”

    Alicia Michelsen

    Paonia, Colorado

  • "Lani lived on our farm for a couple of years and created art in everything she did. She painted murals on the gates into my chicken yard, on the door to the farm bathhouse, on the ceiling of one of our classrooms. Everything was done with care and precision and JOY! From the amusing to the sublime, Lani has not only the skills and creativity to transform spaces, but the refined sensibility to know exactly what is needed and wanted. "

    Caren von Gontard

    Paonia, Colorado

  • "Lani McKay's heartfelt brushstrokes captured the essence of my beloved Cleo in a breathtaking piece of art. Each stroke seems to whisper the love and memories I shared with my Cleo, creating an emotional tapestry that immortalizes my sweet doggie. This artwork transcends the parchment, evoking a profound connection that brings me solace and celebrates Cleo's spirit. It's a tribute that goes beyond words, a poignant reminder of the indelible bond between me and my furry companion. Thanks so much, Lani!! This piece means the world to me!"

    Athena Eliades

    Las Vegs, Nevada