Creative Strength Training

Discover a Deeper Connection to Your Artist Self!

Artists and athletes alike benefit from strength training. Building creative stamina takes encouragement, mentoring, and regular practice. In Creative Strength Training, you'll discover powerful strategies that combine writing and hands-on art-making to overcome creative stumbling blocks, develop a unique voice and make creating art a regular habit.

   • Overcome resistance while dismantling "the Committee" (that group of inner critics).
   • Explore 10 exercises for making art that stands apart as uniquely yours.
   • Receive support and inspiration from contributing artists who share how each chapter has improved their practice and helped them evolve.
Begin a fresh approach to your creative practice. Begin building stamina today with Creative Strength Training!

"In a world of bookshelves lined with self-help guides to overhauling ourselves, Jane Dunnewold gives us, instead, a way to discover ourselves. Creative Strength Training is a gift to the artist just starting out, and a powerful resource for those of us who feel like we may have grown stale." --Mary Fisher, artist and AIDS activist

"Jane's approach will resonate with anyone who has ever been stymied in his or her attempt to be original and creative. She guides readers on a journey of self-discovery to seek the core of the creative spirit. This newfound self-awareness and confidence is sure to unleash brand new avenues of creativity for those who read this important new work." --Maureen Hendricks, owner of Gateway Canyons Resort, home of Alegre Quilt Retreat

"Jane Dunnewold's approach to the creative process is as refreshing as it is realistic--building stamina means making your art a priority. This method feels at once personal and prolific--a must-have for anyone looking to push his/her boundaries." --Joe Pitcher, founder of textileartist.org

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs