Creative Strength Training
Art. Connection. Personal Power.
Develop your creative practice in a community that values self-expression, personal truth, and supported growth.
Enrollment is open!
THIS IS WHAT YOU’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR
Strengthen Your Art,
Empower Your Life
In this unique community, you’ll find artists, teachers, writers, designers, caregivers, and creators from all professions and life paths. Some members are full-time artists, while others may be nurses, engineers, or parents who simply want to bring creativity into their daily lives.
Whether art is your career, your passion, or a fresh adventure, CST offers a nurturing environment where everyone can learn, connect, and grow.
An IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY
In CST, we believe in creating a space that is rooted in fairness, empathy, respect and mutual support, embracing people of all genders, races, and backgrounds.
While we are not a politics-centered community, we recognize that art and life are intertwined, and we cannot ignore the impact of policies on our lives and creative journeys.
We stand grounded in the belief of resisting policies that threaten our values and the well-being of our community. Together, we support each other in fostering a community that is as resilient as it is inclusive, where creativity becomes a force for personal growth, solidarity, and positive change.
CST is more than just a place to create—it’s a space to connect, to grow, and to explore the ways our creativity intersects with our world. Here, we support each other in all aspects of life, standing in solidarity to build a community that honors the richness of diversity, shared values, and collective strength.
Here’s the problem
Finding a supportive, affordable, and engaging creative community that offers clear guidance and genuine connection can feel nearly impossible.
Many creatives feel isolated and overwhelmed, struggling to stay motivated without the encouragement of like-minded artists.
They crave a safe space where they can share their work without fear of judgment, receive constructive support, and find resources that truly address their needs—all without breaking the bank.
But too often, they’re left navigating impersonal or pricey communities that just don’t feel like home.
Does this sound familiar?
We get it.
Difficulty Finding Inspiration Amidst Daily Responsibilities
Between work, family, and personal obligations, it’s hard to find the time and mental space to explore creative ideas.
Lack of Personal Accountability for Artistic Goals
Without structure or encouragement, it’s easy to abandon creative goals, leading to a cycle of guilt and discouragement.
Feeling Uncertain About Creative Identity and Direction
You crave a sense of direction but struggle to find your voice, feeling lost in a sea of possibilities.
Struggling to Push Past Creative Blocks Alone
You feel overwhelmed trying to work through blocks without fresh perspectives or input from others who understand.
What do YOU need this year?
Greater confidence in what you make?
Knowing there are others who will cheer you on, even when you are feeling that maybe you are in the wrong place and your ideas are bigger than you are?
A safe haven, where the conversation is meaningful, upbeat, and positive?
Project ideas and tutorials to get your creative juices flowing?
A challenge to go deeper and find out how GOOD YOU REALLY ARE?
How Would IT FEEL IF YOU COULD
BUILD A MEANINGFUL, PURPOSE-DRIVEN CREATIVE PRACTICE
Stay motivated and inspired by a community that encourages consistent practice and helps you uncover the deeper purpose in your art.
BREAK THROUGH CREATIVE BLOCKS WITH A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Overcome creative blocks with the encouragement and fresh perspectives of a community that’s here to help you reignite your inspiration.
ACCOUNTABILITY FOR YOUR CREATIVE GOALS
Achieve your creative goals with the support of a community that keeps you accountable, motivated, and consistently moving forward.
STRENGTHEN YOUR ARTISTIC VOICE WITH GUIDANCE
Refine and empower your unique artistic voice with expert guidance from working artists and a community that understands your journey.
We’ve been waiting for you!
We are the
CREATIVE STRENGTH TRAINING
ONLINE ARTIST’s COMMUNITY
Kind Words
Here’s What our MEMBERS say about us
You are, indeed, creating a worldwide community…
where it is safe to create and share with support at whatever level an individual may be.
– Adriana M.
Participating in CST has given me a community that has been absent from my art life.
To be able to be open and vulnerable, and to be honored with the openness and vulnerability of others, is a gift.
– Elizabeth S.
Thank you for your devotion.
That is the only word I can think of that captures how I experience your videos, your zoom meetings, your classes.
Devotion and passion.
– Lindsay W.
WHAT MAKES our community DIFFERENT
Focus on Self-Care and Creative Resilience
CST isn’t just about honing artistic skills—it’s about building personal strength and resilience through creativity. We support each member’s well-being, emphasizing self-care, consistency, and meaningful creative expression as essential parts of an artist’s journey, whether you’re a professional or just beginning.
Emphasis on Consistency Over Perfection
Rather than focusing on “perfect” art, CST values consistent, meaningful creative practice. We encourage members to show up regularly for themselves and their art, fostering a sustainable, fulfilling approach to creativity that supports long-term growth.
Integrated Creative Practice and Personal Growth
At CST, we believe that creativity is a pathway to self-discovery and transformation.
Our community integrates personal growth with artistic development, offering structured support, accountability, and community connections that help you not only improve your art but also deepen your sense of purpose and identity as a creator.
Holistic Approach to Art and Life
CST embraces a holistic view, understanding that art, life, and personal growth are interconnected. We provide a space where your creative journey is honored alongside your lived experiences, creating a community that recognizes the fullness of each member’s life and story.
My involvement with the Creative Strength Training community made my life so much richer.
CST has given me rare exposure to new skills and shown me marvelous works from other artists. Joining this supportive group has bolstered my confidence and led me to discover new personal insights. I encourage others to join in the journey to a rich, authentic life of creativity!
Janis U.
ARE YOU READY TO Turn your ideas into meaningful, impactful art?
Ditch isolation and find your creative rhythm with a community that champions resilience and authentic expression.
Foundations
Beginner-Friendly Art Tutorials
Learn at your own pace with step-by-step guidance, focusing on key elements of design and art principles.
Monthly Art Project
Jumpstart your creativity with prompts designed to ignite new ideas and explore your artistic voice.
Art History Highlights
Enjoy engaging presentations on iconic art movements and influential women artists to deepen your understanding and spark inspiration.
24/7 Online Community Access
Share your progress, exchange ideas, and find support anytime in our vibrant, artist-driven community.
Exclusive Resource Library
Unlock a treasure trove of tutorials, guides, and tools to support your creative journey, available whenever you need them.
Reflection Prompts
Guided journaling exercises to help you reflect on your progress and set meaningful creative goals.
Immersion
Live Membership Meetings
Stay connected, ask questions, and share your progress with Jane, Zenna and fellow members.
“Get Art Done!” Virtual Work Sessions
Dedicated time to focus on your projects with the support and accountability of the community.
Exclusive Monthly Live Workshops
Dive into fresh techniques and creative concepts with interactive, hands-on workshops.
Art Journaling Meet Up
Connect with the community and nurture your creativity in real-time during these interactive, hands-on sessions.
Live Guided Journaling Sessions
Connect with the community and nurture your creativity in real-time during these interactive, hands-on sessions.
Free Entry to Bi-Annual Online Exhibitions
Showcase your work to a wider audience and celebrate your growth as an artist!
Deep Dive
Small, Personalized Group Sessions Twice a Month
Join intimate, focused sessions with Jane, designed to foster deeper connections, personalized feedback, and meaningful discussions.
Exclusive Space for In-Depth Exploration
With limited spots, these small groups allow for individualized attention, ensuring every participant is heard and supported in their journey.
Archetype Study to Enrich Your Creativity
Dive into advanced archetype exploration, uncovering how these powerful themes can deepen your creative projects and artistic voice.
Constructive Critiques and Tailored Feedback
Share your work in a safe, supportive environment and receive detailed critiques to refine your craft and push your creative boundaries.
DEEP DIVE IS NOW FULL.
Looking For Archetypes?
A brand-new, online archetype study group led by Jane.
Next Enrollment Window opens February 2025.
Join now and attend exciting end of the year events!
Burning Bowl — 12/31 2pm CT
A time to cast off the issues of the past year
and open healthy space for new ideas and experiences.
Inspired by Song: A Collage Exploration — 12/17 2pm CT
Led by Jane Dunnewold.
In this workshop, we’ll transform the essence of music into visual art.
White Stone ceremony — 1/6 2pm CT
Our White Stone celebration.
Bring a flat stone you can write on,
and choose a word to guide you through 2025.
Plus journaling and virtual studio sessions!
And so much more coming in 2025!
Who are we, Exactly?
Hey, we’re jane and zenna
Hi! We are Jane Dunnewold and Zenna James — mother and daughter, artists and equally passionate about the power of making things — and making things together.
We have continually returned to creating as a way of rebalancing at times of burnout and reconnecting to our bodies to break cycles of overthinking.
Whether through painting, printmaking, dyeing cloth, or stitch, our mission is to provide a space where you can make things without judgment and connect with seekers on a similar path.
Through our shared commitment to creativity, we can cultivate a deeper connection to ourselves and each other, fostering a world where mental wellbeing and artistic expression are intertwined.
Your Questions, Answered
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Archetype study is now offered as a new online mentorship program with Jane — Awakened Archetypes! More information coming soon.
CST alumni from previous years have access to a membership that includes both CST materials and Awakened Archetype content.
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We are a community of introverts, extroverts and everything in between. You will never be “called on” or asked to present work without first volunteering. We honor and respect boundaries of all members and welcome you to join a meeting to simply sit back to observe!
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Live meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month from 2-3 pm Central.
Live journaling sessions are Fridays 9-10 am Central.
Workshop and virtual working session dates TBA.
Events are recorded.
Topical groups each decide meeting time and frequency based on the members time zones and availability.
Special events like openings for the catalogues and exhibitions are announced in advance, but always around that same time, as we are mindful of what time it is in the UK and Europe and also in New Zealand and AU.
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After you sign up, you'll receive an email order confirmation and a separate Welcome Note with more information about the CST community.
If you do not get this email within 24 hours, check your spam folder and then email Zenna at zenna@janedunnewold.com.
CST is hosted on Circle. Your Welcome email will include a link to create your Circle account.
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What I first envisioned as a ten-week online workshop evolved into an on-going membership because it was clear that in order to establish new creative habits, it takes time.
There are no assignments, there are only tutorials, essays and videos and members choose what they want to focus on. You may read/watch everything, but there is no obligation to do so. We offer a range of ideas and activities because a living, thriving community like the one we foster is all about choice and figuring out preferences, because those are at the heart of who we are as creative beings.
Everyone’s life has lots of moving parts and some times people have more (or less) time than at other times and it’s all ok.
It’s fun, and wonderful to be part of a community of like-minded people who are open to discussion and actively resist judging others. That’s who we are, and that’s what enriches lives so much members return year after year.
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Although the majority of CST members work with textiles, we have people interested in all kinds of creating and that’s part of the point. CST is grounded in strengthening creativity, no matter what medium you work in. The focus is on how to bring our creative selves into every aspect of daily living. Also, we talk about general art concepts more than we talk about specific mediums. For instance, in the past we have discussed composition in general terms and strategies for working in a series.
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By intentionally practicing creativity, we learn to analyze clearly, think deeply, and animate the part of ourselves that wants to have more fun—and become our most authentic selves in the process.
This practice should be available to anyone who seeks it out. With that in mind, we offer scholarships to those with limited budgets and a deep commitment to personal growth through creativity.
Request a scholarship here.
STILL UNDECIDED? READ OUR Our Risk-Free Guarantee
We’re confident that Creative Strength Training will help you build your creative resilience, find inspiration, and connect with a supportive community. However, we understand that investing in yourself and your art can feel like a big step. That’s why we offer a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee.
If you join CST and feel that it’s not the right fit for you, simply let us know within 30 days of your membership, and we’ll refund your payment—no questions asked.
We want you to feel fully supported in your creative journey, knowing that your investment is safe. Join us today, risk-free, and see how CST can transform your creative practice!
ARE YOU READY TO Transform your creativity into a tool for self-expression and growth?
Join us!
Jane Dunnewold is an artist who writes.
Although her popular book, Creative Strength Training: Prompts, Exercises and Stories to Inspire Artistic Genius was written to help artists find deeper joy in creating, her strategies apply to anyone seeking a more creative and boldly authentic life.
Jane lectures and leads workshops that honor and encourage our human desire to create. She has a degree in psychology and religious studies from Baldwin-Wallace University, and twenty-five years of hands-on training in surface design processes.
Zenna James is an artist, seeker and mother.
She has a BA in Anthropology and History from the University of Texas in Austin and has worked as a yoga instructor, advocate for survivors of sexual assault, technical consultant and software developer.
In 2021, she joined her mother Jane full-time and manages all things tech for their business.
She is excited to strengthen her own creativity with the vibrant CST community again this year. You can see her work at zennajames.com and boththingscreative.com.
These are our core beliefs:
Creativity is not only available to creatives. It is a human and innate ability.
Creativity is an essential tool that makes navigating the modern world more rewarding and fun.
Community is an important component of creative living.
You’re worth it. You deserve to be here.
