The beautiful geisha in “Geisha Girl”, an original 11” x 14” matted watercolor painting by Molly McKenzie, turns away with shyness. Yet her calming demeanor is sensed and invites you in to appreciate her peacefulness.

Molly McKenzie, a talented artist based in Lihue, is also a dedicated supporter of numerous 88 Shrines activities and causes. Her creative contributions and community involvement make her an invaluable asset to the local arts and cultural scene.

Molly McKenzie studied at the Emily Carr School of Art in Vancouver, B.C. Canada in the1970’s. However, it wasn’t until she moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2003 that she took up painting in watercolors full time. Molly was a member of the California Watercolor Association, Art Inc. in Castro Valley and Water Color Connection in Hayward. She studied with many artists in the Bay Area and learned her craft over 11 years. Molly’s paintings have been hung in numerous galleries, restaurants and public spaces in the Bay Area. In 2013 Molly and her husband Brian moved to Kauai.

In 2016, Molly and Brian were awed by Lawai International Center and began to volunteer by nurturing the land of Lawai and setting up for events. Molly was inspired to paint a series of images of the 88 shrines and their surroundings. Many of these images are available in greeting cards available on Open House days at the center.