GVN Talking Comics: Clover Press’ Hank Kanalz on ‘Dick Tracy Deluxe Editions (1941–1944)’

Clover Press, headed by co-founder Robbie Robbins and former DC executive Hank Kanalz, publishes a diverse range of collected and original content. Their offerings include remastered reprints of classic newspaper strips, horror graphic novels, and high-quality art books. Clover Press collaborates with a variety of creators, such as David Mack, Alex Maleev, David Nakayama, Russell Dauterman, Michael Allred, Jorge Jiménez, Tyler Kirkham, Mike del Mundo, Kevin Eastman, Steve Niles, Gabriel Rodriguez, Richard Bennett, Ray Troll, John K. Snyder III, Stewart Kenneth Moore, Aron Wiesenfeld, and more.

Currently, they are in the midst of their BackerKit Campaign to bring their 1941-1944 4-book collection of Chester Gould’s iconic strip Dick Tracy, to eager fans. Bringing back Gould’s legendary stable of unforgettable characters that perpetuate the world of Dick Tracy! With this in mind, we recently reconnected with Clover Press Publisher Hank Kanalz to discuss the work that has gone into Clover Press’ impressive library of books and this latest exciting collection. So, let’s welcome back Hank Kanalz to GVN Talking Comics.

Recruiting Exceptional Talent

GVN: Thank you once again for visiting with us, Hank. It has been a while since we last spoke in January 2023 about your ‘Artists in Korea’ and ‘Artists in Taiwan’ books. Since then, Clover Press has continued its mission of producing excellent books for collectors and fans. However, I am curious: with so many high-quality publications being released, do you pursue these projects, or do the creators approach you to collaborate on a book or collection?

Hank: It HAS been a while, hasn’t it? It’s a mix – many projects we pursue, and many projects are pitched to us. Our first guiding principle at Clover is to publish books we love. So it can start with an idea – “Hey, wouldn’t it be great if…” But I think since the last time we spoke, we’ve been more consistent with our output and have built a solid line of books, so we’re attracting more creators, too.

The Marvel Art of…Collections

GVN: We have covered a large number of your art books, including your “Marvel Art of” editions. How did this collaboration with Marvel originate, and how much freedom do you have in selecting the pieces that you choose for each talented artist?

Hank: When I first met with the Clover Press team, the first question they asked me was “What kind of books do you want to publish?” And before they could finish the question, I rattled off the list of books I wanted to do, starting with art books. Not because my list was alphabetical, but because I absolutely love art books. So then once I started, we pitched Marvel, and they responded enthusiastically in the affirmative. Every art book is different, and Marvel gives us wide latitude for artists and art selection. We work closely with each artist to make sure it’s a book they’ll be proud to have out there.

Revisiting Classic Comics Strips

GVN: Part of the charm and, quite frankly, the coolness of your books is the ones that celebrate some of the classic strips, like Terry and the Pirates or Dick Tracy. First and foremost, when you pursue these iconic characters, how much does being a fan of these strips play into your desire to present them in their best light?

Hank: I think it’s fundamental to our desire to put out the best possible version. If we’re not excited about our editions, how can we expect you to be? And I think being a fan also brings out the creativity in our team, in finding new ways to present the material.

Chester Gould’s Dick Tracy Circa 1941-44

GVN: Speaking of Chester Gould’s Dick Tracy, you are bringing his classic strip from the early 40’s into a four-volume set via BackerKit. Along the way, you have recruited some great talent to create covers for these exciting collections. Names like Jerry Ordway, Stewart Kenneth Moore, J.K. Snyder III, Juan Jose Ryp, and David Mack. Did you have to do much convincing for these artists to apply their talents to Chester Gould’s iconic detective?

Hank: So far, no – our first wave of artists have been enthusiastic about it, most being fans of the character from childhood. Not that they were kids in the 40’s, ha hah! But since DICK TRACY has been around for so long, he’s captured many different generations of fans.

The BackerKit Campaign

GVN: Speaking of the BackerKit campaign, what will fans find when they visit Clover Press’s Chester Gould’s Dick Tracy deluxe editions?

Hank: We’re running a streamlined campaign, so for our debut outing, we’re offering FOUR volumes, collecting 1941-1944. Each volume will be the complete year, from January 1 to December 31. But, we also have some Backerkit exclusives – some prints, stickers, trading cards, and a unique lithograph featuring art by Gould that he created for LIFE Magazine.

Upcoming Projects

GVN: Thanks once more for your time, Hank. Before we wrap it up, let’s mention any other projects upcoming for Clover Press. I know there is always something new around the corner.

Hank: We’ve got THE MARVEL ART OF MICHAEL ALLRED hitting stores later this month. For the newspaper fanatics out there, we’ll be launching THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN NEWSPAPER STRIPS softcover collections on Kickstarter shortly. And thanks much for having me!

Clover Press’s Deluxe 4-book set of Chester Gould’s Dick Tracy comic strips from 1941 to 1944 is currently running a BackerKit campaign. You can check out the books and all the available goodies here.