Lori Beaty

Born in 1961, I call myself a native of Fort Collins, Colorado. The natural beauty of this region has always deeply inspired me. The majestic mountains mirror the enormous kindness and love of the people who have chosen this city as their home. I am truly blessed to live in a community where art and spirituality are alive and thriving.

I have been involved in the graphic arts and printing industry since my first job 26 years ago as a production artist at a local newspaper. Over the years my passion for visual presentation has provided many opportunities for growth and a vast variety of jobs. I won't bore you with the resume. Let's just say I have performed every task from 4 color stripping of negatives to art directing photo shoots and I know a lot about printing, color management, marketing and running a business.

Like all evolving industries, printing and graphic design became high tech very quickly. I was compelled to move beyond my fear of technology so I took advantage of the local campus computer lab and taught myself all of the available software programs (as well as some fun games.) Over the years, when I needed to update my software skills, I would employ myself in a fast paced production environment and learn everything there was to learn. I have always felt impelled to stay on the leading edge of most things.

At age 30, I decided to attend college with the intention of becoming a family therapist. In 1996, I received a Bachelors of Science Degree in Psychology from Colorado State University. I am also proud to say that I graduated with highest honors and several very unique experiences. I received the Ronald McNair Undergraduate Scholarship which funded a research project of my own design. I believe the synchronicity of this experience will be obvious to you. First, I chose to test the visual acuity of pigeons by presenting various geometric shapes to them. Not only that, the pigeons were trained to identify their target shape by pecking on a touch screen monitor which was leading edge technology at that time. All of the shapes were drawn and manipulated in the software I now use for creating mandalas. In the end, all of the numerical results of the research had to be translated into a visual presentation. I realize now that while I posed some formal question for the sake of academia, the deeper question for me was, "How precise does geometry have to be to gain the most visual benefit?" My conclusion: Precise

My school experience was a rewarding journey and at the end of it I chose to be an entrepreneur instead of a therapist.

Two very profound teachers in my life are my parents. I learned from them while growing up that entrepreneurship has many rewards. Ultimately, their influence and my love for visual presentation have led me to where I am now. I currently own and operate a large format, digital printing business.

Started in 1997, Color Key Displays, Inc., has evolved into an entity of its own, thriving and attracting wonderful clients and vendors. If you are interested in learning more about our products and services please visit our web site at www.colorkeydisplays.com.

Another profound teacher in my life has been my son Nathan. He inspires me to pursue those things I am passionate about. I am honored to parent him, love him, and in many ways grow up together with him. Nathan, like many of his generation, came with some extraordinary gifts. He is a talented musician and born leader. He has an almost photographic memory and at age 24, a clear understanding of manifesting his life. I look forward to all that the journey with him will bring.

Also on this sojourn is my life partner, Lara. Her love and support of my artwork has been priceless and again I am honored to be her beloved. We have created a beautiful life together and an environment which supports our love of each other and spirit.