Is whitewash an option? Keeping the wood looking a little more natural

Just did the same thing in my personal house. Used satin pro classic from Sherwynn Williams. Sprayed it in place with 3 light coats with a light sanding (320 sanding block) in between the coats. Turned out great. We have a rustic kitchen and didn't want the ship lath to come across as to shiny or fake. Very happy with the result

Thank you High Craft Homes! I'm now leaning toward Ben Moore Aura Matte simply because my installer has to face nail each board on one side due to lack of dual strapping and I was told when he touches up the nail holes with a matte finish there will be no shadowing which is more likely in a satin finish. Would you agree?

I would highly recommend painting it in place. Or at least the final coat. Crawfords putty is very good, won't shrink and crack. If you put 2 rounds of that on with a good sanding in between you should be good. Or prepaint before install and put a final coat on once it's in place. I know from experience that it is kind of a pain in the rear but it looks the best once its done.