Alex Ross Returns to Marvel Origins with 'Marvel Dimensions' at Abrams ComicArts
Alex Ross is revisiting Marvel superheroes in Marvel Dimensions, a new Abrams ComicArts graphic novel that pairs painted origin stories with a separate pen-and-ink comic insert. The project continues the MarvelArts line’s approach of giving creators room for formats and ideas outside Marvel’s usual publishing scope.
Alex Ross is turning back to Marvel’s early history with Marvel Dimensions, a new graphic novel from Abrams ComicArts that reimagines classic superhero origins in two distinct forms. The book, set for September, follows 2022’s Fantastic Four: Full Circle and once again comes through Abrams rather than Marvel itself.
The project is part of Abrams’ MarvelArts line, which editorial director Charles Kochman has described as a place for projects Marvel may not have the resources or format flexibility to handle. Full Circle launched the line, and Marvel Dimensions continues its approach of giving Ross room to build a book around an idea that would not fit neatly inside a standard superhero comic.
Ross said the book grew out of leftover concepts he wanted to combine, with the result becoming a deliberately hybrid work. The first half consists of painted two-page spreads in his familiar style, each one revisiting the origin of a different Marvel character, beginning with the original Human Torch and ending with Jean Grey as Phoenix. The second half shifts into a narrative comic drawn in pen and ink, tucked into the hardcover as a 32-page insert.