Table of Contents

Living Well - The Books

 

Join William at the crossroads of technology, business, and leadership, where true influence isn't about titles - it's about inspiring action, driving change, and guiding others with integrity. Discover how authentic leadership can transform not just careers, but entire industries.

 

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From Combat to Canvas: William Robert Stanek's Artistic Journey

(December 2, 2024) William Robert Stanek's transformation from a decorated military serviceman to a celebrated artist and author is a compelling story of resilience, creativity, and self-discovery. His experiences in the military have profoundly influenced his artistic work, shaping his perspective and inspiring his creations.

Wiliam Stanek and Family c1999

Early Life and Challenges

William's journey began in Wisconsin, where he faced significant adversity from a young age. Raised by a single mother after losing his stepfather and sister to a tragic accident, William and his siblings often lived in poverty and went hungry. From the age of 10, William worked odd jobs to help support his family. These early experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a determination to overcome obstacles.

At 17, during his senior year of high school, William found himself homeless when his mother remarried and moved away. Despite these challenges, he managed to finish high school and soon after joined the US Air Force, where he would begin a distinguished military career.

Art by William Stanek

William's military career took him to various fields of combat and special operations around the world. His service was marked by bravery, skill, and dedication, earning him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross. This medal, awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement, symbolizes William's significant contributions and sacrifices.

Despite the honors, the emotional toll of his service was considerable. "I would give all the medals away to be able to close my eyes and not see any of it," William says, highlighting the traumatic experiences he endured. His military work was often top secret, involving collaborations with the NSA, Army, Marines, and Navy. These classified missions added an additional layer of complexity and secrecy to his service.

Art by William Stanek

The Turning Point

A pivotal moment in William's life came in the early 1990s when he met Ronald Reagan and George HW Bush. At the time, both were trustees of the National Awards program at the Freedoms Foundation, and William had recently received the George Washington Honor Medal from the foundation. This meeting was a significant acknowledgment of his service, but for William, it marked a new beginning.

"It was an honor to have those great men shake my hand and mean it when they congratulated me for my achievements," William says. However, he viewed this recognition not as the culmination of his efforts but as motivation to strive for greater achievements. Determined to make a lasting impact, William set out on a new path.

Art by William Stanek

After leaving the military, William turned to art as a means of healing and self-expression. His photography, painting, and writing became outlets for processing his experiences and sharing his journey with others. His wife, Hui Cha Stanek, was instrumental in this transition, providing unwavering support and contributing to the planning and execution of their creative projects.

William's work often reflects his military background. His landscapes convey a sense of solitude and contemplation, while his cityscapes capture the hustle and bustle of urban life. The themes of resilience and transformation are recurring motifs in his work, mirroring his personal journey.

Art by William Stanek

Building a Legacy

William and Hui Cha's collaborative efforts have resulted in a diverse and acclaimed body of work. William's literary achievements include writing nonfiction under his own name and fiction under the pseudonym Robert Stanek. His children's picture books, nearly 100 in total, are painted with his beautiful watercolors and have become beloved by readers worldwide.

In photography, William is celebrated for his stunning landscapes and innovative photo series such as "Snapshot in Time," "Perspective," and "Elevate." These series showcase his ability to capture the essence of different locations through cohesive thematic collections. Hui Cha's meticulous planning ensures that every project runs smoothly, allowing William to focus entirely on his art.

Art by William Stanek

William's French and Scandinavian heritage also plays a significant role in his artistic vision. His maternal lineage traces back to the Beauchamps of Basse-Normandie, France, and the Trolles of Scandinavia. This rich cultural background is reflected in his work, infusing it with a sense of history and depth. The themes and subjects he chooses often pay homage to his roots, adding another layer of meaning to his art.

For William, art has always been more than just a career; it's been a vital tool for healing. "My work has always been an outlet, if not for my own healing, then to help heal others," he explains. Through his stories, paintings, and photographs, William channels his experiences into creative expressions that resonate with many.

His wife, Hui Cha, has been his steadfast partner throughout this journey. Together, they have created a body of work that offers solace and inspiration to countless individuals. Their partnership is built on mutual respect and a shared passion for their craft, allowing them to create work that is both deeply personal and universally appealing.

Art by William Stanek

A Personal Story: Meeting Hui Cha

One of the most significant stories from William's military days is how he met his wife, Hui Cha. On his way to survival training at Fairchild AFB in Eastern Washington, he decided to stop at McChord AFB for some R&R. His first night back in the U.S. after years away found him tired but hungry. He went to Denny's and then, drawn by the neon sign of a bar, he decided to stop in for a cold beer.

It was a slow night, and William struck up a conversation with the bartender, who happened to be Hui Cha's sister. She thought William and her sister would be a perfect match and convinced him to wait for her sister to arrive. After some persuasion and a few more calls, Hui Cha finally came in.

Art by William Stanek

Wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt, with no makeup besides red lipstick and mascara, Hui Cha walked in and there was instant chemistry. They hit it off quickly, talked for hours, and set a date for the following day. William saw Hui Cha every day he was on R&R at McChord. When he left, they promised to visit each other on weekends whenever possible.

During his survival training, Hui Cha drove out to Fairchild AFB twice, and he drove back to the west coast once. After training, he spent another week of R&R at McChord before heading to Air Combat School. During this time, he convinced her to join him for the six months of ACS. Two months later, they married and have been together for 35 years.

Art by William Stanek

William Robert Stanek's journey from combat to canvas is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and love. His experiences in the military have profoundly influenced his artistic work, shaping his perspective and inspiring his creations. With the unwavering support of his wife, Hui Cha, William has built a legacy that spans multiple artistic disciplines.

Together, they have created a body of work that resonates deeply with many, offering solace, inspiration, and a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of the human experience. William's story reminds us that true success is not just about receiving accolades but about the continuous pursuit of one's passions and the desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. Through his art, William Robert Stanek continues to heal, inspire, and transform lives.

 

 

 

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Living Well - The Books

 

Transform your life with practical wisdom. Discover William Stanek's 'Living Well' series - your guide to a balanced and fulfilling life.

 

 

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The Black and White Collection #1

 

Support The Lights of Paris by Robert Stanek, William Stanek's pen name! Through vivid historical detail and deeply moving character stories, Robert takes readers on an unforgettable journey through one of history’s most transformative times.