Embrace the Giving Season with Art: Support Creativity and Communities
As the holiday season approaches, we're reminded of the tremendous impact art has on our lives. Yet, the challenges brought by the COVID pandemic have deeply affected the artistic community. My wife and I continue to champion artists and photographers through our online galleries, but we need your support now more than ever.
Our galleries moved online in spring 2021, a transition prompted by the closure of World Galleries. This shift, while born out of necessity, empowered us to reclaim worldwide rights to our art and photography. Our model has always been different--we believe in giving back. We've dedicated 80% of profits directly to the artists, a stark contrast to the conventional 40-65% retained by galleries. For over three decades, sales of my work have fueled this support system for artists and photographers, many of whom struggle to make ends meet.
The dream was to expand our digital space to showcase the incredible talent within our artist community. Unfortunately, the anticipated sales volumes didn't materialize, hindering our broader mission to uplift these artists. As a result, we weren't able to expand our online galleries beyond our work.
This holiday season, we're asking for your support. By purchasing prints for your home, office, or business, you're not just acquiring art; you're investing in the future and helping us get back to profitability and a place where it may once again be possible to support the livelihoods of these creators, their families and communities.
Out of the many talented artists we were privileged to work with, we invite you to meet Darnell, Aylin, Sarah, and Rebecca. Their stories echo resilience, creativity, and the power of art to illuminate even the darkest of times.
Darnell, a devoted father and artist, balances his passion for art while striving to support his children's dreams, including putting his eldest through college.
Aylin, a single mom, draws strength from her creativity despite facing unemployment. Her art continues to be a beacon of hope and determination.
Sarah, now working tirelessly at a grocery store, showcases unwavering dedication to her craft. Your support ensures her talent remains a guiding light through life's challenges.
Rebecca, another cherished artist, who navigates these uncertain times without work. Your encouragement fuels her creativity and resilience.
To honor Darnell, Aylin, Sarah, Rebecca, and other creators, we've established three funds. Learn more about them at https://www.pictorem.com/gallery/360.Studios or make a direct contribution to show your support at:
Your commitment to our cause means the world to us. Together, let's ensure that creativity thrives and communities flourish.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season filled with art, creativity, and warmth.
Thank you for being part of our community and for considering supporting our mission.
Warm regards,
William and Hui Cha Stanek
领英推荐
A Story Behind the Art: Talking Landscape Photography and Waterfalls with Hui Cha Stanek (excerpt from an interview)
DC: William’s landscapes, especially his waterfalls, are truly stunning. Few others even come close to his level. What’s your work together like? "We’ve worked together so many years," Hui Cha says. "We have a rhythm. It works, but we don’t just show up and start taking pictures. There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes."
DC: You’re talking about planning before you go out to a location? How does that work? "We pick locations and study the area," Hui Cha says. "Everything is timed so that our arrival is optimal. The right time of day, the right time of year, the right positioning, the right equipment. All of this means that once we go, William can just do his thing."
DC: You’re being modest. You’re always there with William and behind the scenes in the planning. Aren’t you? "Yes, I am with him," Hui Cha says smiling, "By the time we’re on location though, I tend to stay out of his way and let him do what he needs to do. I’m there to assist when he needs me."
DC: Sometimes things happen on location. You can’t control the weather. Things like that. "True," Hui Cha says, "we do our best to optimize travel based on forecasts, but you can’t predict the future. You can’t control traffic, closures and such either."
DC: William’s the guy others try to emulate in their work, especially in landscape photography, even if they don’t realize it. How do you feel about that? "William and I have been doing this for thirty years. Our work is everywhere. It’d be disappointing if we weren’t seen as setting the standard others are trying to achieve."
DC: William’s use of natural light always amazes. More amazing, year after year, he does things differently than others, even himself. You’re with him behind the scenes. How does he capture, say a waterfall, in a way no one else has? "By thinking differently," Hui Cha says, "by not just showing up, by studying and watching.”
DC: To help everyone understand this, can you give an example? “Sure," Hui Cha says. "In Adelboden, William studied the falls from a distance for days before going out to the site, not to mention all the driving we did around the area to get to know the lighting."
DC: And the results are breathtaking... "I think they are," Hui Cha says smiling. "You never know what the day will truly bring until you’re there, but sometimes it all comes together just right."
Find more stories behind the art at our online galleries!