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Art & Culture

Culture and art is many things and at Tales you find a wide selection of art and culture books. If you enjoy a trip to the museum or an evening at the theatre this is the place for you. If you are more into architecture or a well written song, fear not you also find books about that. Lastly design and fashion is also part of our art and culture selection, so what are you waiting for? Set your inner creativity free and get inspired by some of the world’s best artists, musicians, designers or architects.
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  • Save 15%
    by Alain de Botton
    £10.99

    THE NUMBER ONE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER From one of our greatest voices in modern philosophy, author of The Course of Love, The Consolations of Philosophy, Religion for Atheists and The School of Life The Architecture of Happiness explores the fascinating hidden links between the buildings we live in and our long-term wellbeing'Engaging and intelligent... Full of splendid ideas, happily and beautifully expressed' Independent 'Alain de Botton takes big, complex subjects and writes about them with thoughtful and deceptive innocence' Observer'Clever, provocative and fresh as a daisy' Literary ReviewBestselling author Alain de Botton has written about love, travel, status and how philosophy can console us. Now he turns his attention to one of our most intense but often hidden love affairs: with our houses and their furnishings. He asks: What makes a house truly beautiful?Why are many new houses so ugly?Why do we argue so bitterly about sofas and pictures - and can differences of taste ever be satisfactorily resolved?Will minimalism make us happier than ornaments? To answer these questions and many more, de Botton looks at buildings across the world, from medieval wooden huts to modern skyscrapers; he examines sofas and cathedrals, tea sets and office complexes, and teases out a host of often surprising philosophical insights. The Architecture of Happiness will take you on a beguiling tour through the history and psychology of architecture and interior design, and will forever alter your relationship with buildings. It will change the way you look at your current home - and help you make the right decisions about your next one.

  • Save 15%
    by Gaston Bachelard
    £10.99

    The Poetics of Space is a captivating exploration of the spaces that hold our dreams and fears. Written by Gaston Bachelard and published by Penguin Books Ltd in 2014, this book delves into the philosophy of spaces we inhabit. This piece of literature is a must-read for those interested in the intersection of philosophy and architecture. As you turn each page, you'll find yourself drawn into Bachelard's unique and insightful perspective on the spaces that surround us and how they shape our inner world. From the intimate spaces of our homes to the vast expanses of the universe, Bachelard takes you on a journey that will change the way you perceive the world around you. This book is a testament to the genius of Bachelard and a testament to the enduring quality of Penguin Books Ltd's publications. It's a thought-provoking read that will leave you contemplating long after you've turned the last page.

  • Save 29%
    by Ilse Crawford & Edwin Heathcote
    £29.99

  • Save 23%
     
    £15.49

    The Paintings That Revolutionized Art is a groundbreaking book that was published by Prestel in 2015. This book is a must-have for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It explores the masterpieces that have shaped the world of art and challenged the status quo. From the Renaissance to the modern era, each painting is a testament to the artist's innovation and creativity. The author dives deep into the history and significance of each artwork, providing readers with insightful commentary and analysis. This book is not just a collection of beautiful images; it's a journey through time, showcasing the evolution of art and the power of human creativity. Published by Prestel, a renowned publisher known for their high-quality art books, this book is a valuable addition to any art lover's collection.

  • Save 10%
    by Kip Thorne
    £17.99

    A journey through the otherworldly science behind Christopher Nolan's award-winning film, Interstellar, from executive producer and Nobel Prize-winning physicist Kip Thorne.

  • Save 21%
    by Martha Cooper
    £14.99

    Documenting the work of graffiti writers who illegally painted subway cars in New York City, the authors recall how they gained entry to the New York graffiti community in the 1970s and 1980s and describe the techniques that they used to photograph it.

  • Save 21%
    by Megan Hess
    £13.49 - 16.99

    Coco Chanel: The Illustrated World of a Fashion Icon is an illustrated biography of Coco's Chanels life from the internationally reknown illustrator and author, Megan Hess.Itfeatures key moments from Cocos amazing life and iconic items from the fashion empire that she built. Think an illustrated picture book for adults, told through Megans stylish and feminine illustrations with a fun, whimsical and magical bent.Coco Chanel takes us on a romp through the three distinct chapters of Cocos life: from Coco's early life and building the brand, to the empire she created, to the legacy she left behind, and how her style is still influential and iconic today.Hess'sbook literally paints apicture of the woman whoforever changed the waywomen dress.The AustralianCoco Chanel: The Illustrated World of a FashionIconis a beautifully presentedbiography of the designerBooks + Publishing NationalStyle lovers, unite! Thisamazing guided tour ofChanel's game-changingempire is made for coffeetablesCleoAustralian illustrator Megan Hess,whose work graces prestigious designers and brands including Chanel, Carrier andTiffany and Co., creates a whimsical adventure through the world of MademoiselleChanelPRIMOLife

  • Save 20%
    by Andrea Kettenmann
    £11.99

    Feminist icon, symbol of Mexican culture, political activist, groundbreaking artist: discover the many facets of Frida Kahlo, who transformed the afflictions of her life into unremittingly powerful paintings. In this introduction, Kahlo's body of bold, arresting works are presented alongside her turbulent life to shed light on the audacious...

  • Save 30%
    by Jens Muller
    £41.99

    Logo Modernism, a remarkable book penned by Jens Müller, is a captivating exploration into the world of modern design. Published in 2015 by Taschen GmbH, this book delves into the innovative and transformative period of modernist design. The genre of this book is art and design, and it beautifully encapsulates the essence of modernism in logos. Müller, with his keen eye for design and detail, takes the reader through a journey of the most influential logos of the modernist era. The book is a testament to the author's expertise and Taschen GmbH's commitment to publishing high-quality, insightful books. Written in English, Logo Modernism is a must-read for anyone interested in design, art, or the evolution of logos.

  • Save 20%
    by Louna Lahti
    £11.99

    Discover the gentler face of modernism in this introduction to Alvar Aalto, the Finnish architect who defied the slick geometries set by the International Style to prioritize soft, poetic, undulating forms. Whether a villa, a sauna, or a lamp design, Aalto's organic structures championed environmentally sound and progressive design with a deep-...

  • Save 24%
    by Christopher Herwig
    £18.99

    Photographer Christopher Herwig has covered more than 30,000km by car, bike, bus and taxi in 13 former Soviet countries discovering and documenting these unexpected treasures of modern art. From the shores of the Black Sea to the endless Kazakh steppe, these bus stops show the range of public art from the Soviet era and give a rare glimpse into the creative minds of the time. The book represents the most comprehensive and diverse collection of Soviet bus stop design ever assembled from: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Moldova, Armenia, Abkhazia, Georgia, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. With a foreword by writer, critic and television presenter Jonathan Meades.

  • Save 29%
    by Blizzard Entertainment
    £33.99

    World of Warcraft: Chronicle Volume 1is a journey through an age of myth and legend, a time long before the Horde and the Alliance came to be. This definitive tome ofWarcrafthistory reveals untold stories about the birth of the cosmos, the rise of ancient empires, and the forces that shaped the world of Azeroth and its people. This beautiful hardcover features twenty-five full-page paintings byWorld of Warcraftartist Peter Lee, as well as a cosmology chart, half a dozen maps charting changes through time, and other line art illustrations by Joseph Lacroix, and marks the first in a multipart series exploring theWarcraftuniverse; from the distant past to the modern era.

  • Save 23%
    by Tomoko Nakamichi
    £15.49

  • Save 15%
    - An Illustrated Sourcebook
    by Chika Miyata
    £10.99

    How to Draw Almost Everything by Chika Miyata is a delightful guide for anyone interested in honing their drawing skills. Published by Quarry Books in 2016, this book is a must-have for both budding and experienced artists. The genre of this book is art instruction, and it serves as a fantastic resource for individuals wanting to explore their artistic abilities. Chika Miyata, a renowned illustrator, provides a comprehensive collection of sketches covering almost every subject you can think of. From fruits and animals to vehicles and people, Miyata's book is a treasure trove of easy-to-follow instructions and inspirational ideas. Quarry Books is proud to present this gem to the world, and it's a book that deserves a spot on every artist's shelf.

  • Save 15%
    by Keri Smith
    £10.99

    Wreck This Journal: Now in Colour is a unique and engaging book by the renowned author Keri Smith. Published by Penguin Books Ltd in 2017, this book invites readers to embrace their creativity and break away from the constraints of conventional art-making. The genre of this book is hard to pin down, as it is part diary, part sketchbook, and part scrapbook, with a dash of self-help. It is a book that encourages readers to let go, to make mistakes, and to fill pages with their thoughts, ideas, and expressions in a riot of colour. The author, Keri Smith, has a knack for bringing out the hidden artist in everyone, and this book is no exception. If you're looking for a book that is different from the norm and allows you to express yourself in colour, then Wreck This Journal: Now in Colour is the book for you.

  • Save 30%
    - The Complete Collections
    by Alexander Fury
    £41.99

    Dior Catwalk is a captivating book written by the renowned author, Alexander Fury. Published in 2017 by Thames & Hudson Ltd, this book has quickly become a must-read in the fashion industry. Dior Catwalk is not just a book, it's a journey through the iconic fashion house's rich history, showcasing the evolution of its style over the years. Alexander Fury, with his exceptional writing skills, invites readers into the world of Dior, offering an exclusive look at the behind-the-scenes of the catwalk. The book is an exquisite compilation of Dior's most memorable pieces, making it a perfect addition to any fashion lover's collection. So, immerse yourself in the world of high fashion with Dior Catwalk, a book that is as stylish as it is informative. Published by Thames & Hudson Ltd, the book is a testament to their commitment to delivering quality content to readers around the world.

  • Save 23%
    by Jake Spicer
    £15.49

    You Will be Able to Draw by the End of This Book is a unique and inspiring guide by renowned artist Jake Spicer. Published by the Octopus Publishing Group in 2017, this book transcends the boundaries of standard art instruction books. Jake Spicer introduces readers to the world of drawing in a fresh, modern, and accessible way, making it an ideal read for aspiring artists and art enthusiasts alike. The book is not just about learning to draw; it's about a journey of self-discovery and expressing oneself through art. This book falls under the genre of art instruction, and it promises to take you from a novice to a confident drawer by the time you turn the last page. If you've ever wanted to express yourself through drawing, this book by Jake Spicer, published by Octopus Publishing Group, is definitely a must-have.

  • Save 23%
    - Sketches from Bag End to Mordor
    by John Howe
    £15.49

    Let acclaimed Tolkien artist John Howe take you on an unforgettable journey across Middle-earth, from Bag End to Mordor, in this richly illustrated sketchbook fully of previously unseen artwork, anecdotes and meditations on Middle-earth.

  • Save 15%
    - Inspiration for Your Quiet Place Somewhere
    by Steven Leckart & Zach Klein
    £10.99

    Offers a collection of photography of rural escapes and inspiring stories of people who've created their dream home. This book is an invitation to slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the beauty and serenity that happens when nature meets simple craft.

  • Save 25%
    - A Handbook for Accessories Designers
    by Fashionary
    £21.99

    Fashionary Bag Design book is the most practical bag encyclopedia, a complete handbook for bag designers and bag lovers. Differential from ordinary bag design books, the Fashionary Bag Design is a complete handbook focusing on the practical needs of handbag designers.

  • Save 27%
    - An Illustrated Guide to Building a Fashion Brand
    by Fashionary
    £23.49

  • Save 20%
    by Running Press
    £22.49

    Step into the magical world with the 'Harry Potter Pensieve Memory Set' by Running Press. Published in 2017 by Running Press, U.S., this enchanting set is a must-have for every Potterhead. The genre of the book is fantasy, and it beautifully encapsulates the mystic elements of the Harry Potter universe. The 'Pensieve Memory Set' is not just a book; it's an experience that transports you to the spellbinding world of Hogwarts, casting a charm that's hard to resist. So, are you ready to dive into the memories and relive the magic?

  • Save 15%
    by Maggie Nelson
    £10.99

    A raw, cerebral work devoted to the inextricability of pleasure and pain, and to the question of what role, if any, aesthetic beauty can play in times of great heartache or grief.

  • Save 21%
    - Expert Color Information for Professional Results
    by Leatrice Eiseman
    £14.99

    The only color guide a designer will ever need; The Complete Color Harmony, Pantone Edition has been completely updated with Pantone colors and new text.

  • Save 15%
    - From Gilmore Girls to Gilmore Girls, and Everything in Between
    by Lauren Graham
    £10.99

    A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER: with a new bonus chapterWINNER of the GoodReads Choice Awards 2017 for HumourIn this collection of personal essays, the beloved star of Gilmore Girls and Parenthood reveals stories about life, love, and working as a woman in Hollywood-along with behind-the-scenes dispatches from the set of the new Gilmore Girls, where she plays the fast-talking Lorelai Gilmore once again.In Talking As Fast As I Can, Lauren Graham hits pause for a moment and looks back on her life, sharing laugh-out-loud stories about growing up, starting out as an actress, and, years later, sitting in her trailer on the Parenthood set and asking herself, "e;Did you, um, make it?"e; She opens up about the challenges of being single in Hollywood ("e;Strangers were worried about me; that's how long I was single!"e;), the time she was asked to audition her butt for a role, and her experience being a judge onProject Runway ("e;It's like I had a fashion-induced blackout"e;).In "e;What It Was Like, Part One,"e; Graham sits down for an epic Gilmore Girls marathon and reflects on being cast as the fast-talking Lorelai Gilmore. The essay "e;What It Was Like, Part Two"e; reveals how it felt to pick up the role again nine years later, and what doing so has meant to her.Some more things you will learn about Lauren: She once tried to go vegan just to bond with Ellen DeGeneres, she's aware that meeting guys at awards shows has its pitfalls ("e;If you're meeting someone for the first time after three hours of hair, makeup, and styling, you've already set the bar too high"e;), and she's a card-carrying REI shopper ("e;My bungee cords now earn points!"e;).Including photos and excerpts from the diary Graham kept during the filming of the recent Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life, this book is like a cozy night in, catching up with your best friend, laughing and swapping stories, and-of course-talking as fast as you can.

  • Save 29%
    by Dodie Kazanjian
    £35.49

    Vogue: The Covers (updated edition) is a stunning masterpiece by Dodie Kazanjian, released in 2017. This book is a tribute to the magazine's 125th anniversary, showcasing its remarkable cover collection that has been updated and refreshed for this edition. Published by Abrams, this coffee-table book is a must-have for every fashion enthusiast. It gives the reader an exclusive look into the world of Vogue, featuring iconic covers from its 125-year history. The book is a testament to the exceptional talent of the artists who have contributed to the magazine over the years. This book is a journey through time, presenting a visual record of the cultural and aesthetic revolutions that have taken place since the magazine's inception. Vogue: The Covers (updated edition) is not just a book, it's a piece of fashion history.

  • Save 31%
    by Hugh M. Hefner
    £44.99

    This gorgeous and giant volume collects every single nude centrefold ever featured in Playboy.

  • Save 17%
    - How Creative Practice Works
    by Kees Dorst
    £14.99

    This book introduces practices that are now partof what people see as '21st Century Skills'. Theenjoyable essays in this book provide a panoramicview over the subject of design. The essaysare written to encourage designers and studentsof design to reflect upon their field. Fundamentalquestions are raised about the nature of design,about designers themselves, and about the role ofdesign within the broader contexts of business andsociety.And design, these days, is not just for designers- many different fields are learning from design tobuild creative practices, and this book seeks tohelp to open up design practices for general use.The book is for designers (to help them reflect ontheir practices, and develop them further) and forstudents of design across all designing disciplines.

  • Save 23%
    - Learn to Paint Watercolor in 30 Days
    by Jenna Rainey
    £15.49

    A contemporary paint-every-day watercolour guide that explores foundational strokes and patterns and then builds new skills upon the foundations over the course of 30 days to create finished pieces.

  • Save 29%
    - Contemporary Ceramic Artisans
    by Amber Creswell Bell
    £31.99

Culture
What defines culture you might ask? The answer is culture is what defines you. It is what makes us humans human and differentiate us from all other species on the planet. Art and culture is what we share with others, whether it is so called high culture or pop culture. High culture is typically associated with the ‘finer’, classical art forms such as opera, classical music, visual art, ballet and plays. Works that often have a certain age and artistic acknowledgement begin it, but fine culture is also sometimes seen as “high-brow” and not something everyone can understand and that’s sad, because culture and cultural books are for everyone no matter the kind. On the other end of the spectrum we have pop culture that typically is associated with more modern, popular and mainstream forms of culture. It can be pop music, cartoons or big blockbuster movies. We have cultural books from each side of the spectrum, but the best thing is that a change between the two concepts is coming and people are more open about mixing high culture and pop culture, because they are not that different at all. The most important thing about culture is that it connects us and is part of who we are. It can create communities and friendships, but also let us reflect upon ourselves. You can get wiser on that topic in some of our selection’s culture books. 

Art
In our selection you find some of the finest art books featuring some of the greatest artists in history and now. Art is a very important part of our culture. In art you have the possibility of getting engrossed in a wonderful painting, a provocative sculpture, a brilliant play or a beautiful ballet. 
In art you can get lost in the most wonderful stories and themes and identify yourself with someone who doesn’t necessarily look and act like you. By experiencing that you improve your ability of empathy. At the same time you can learn about yourself through art and art books especially when it comes to feelings that can be difficult to describe. In art the themes and problematics are universal and that’s why we feel recognized when experiencing a play, listening to a symphony, studying a great painting or reading a good art book. The art books are best enjoyed in a relaxed setting giving the art room to speak. 
Another beautiful thing about art is that it needs interpretation. When a person meets a well painted painting, a classical sculpture, or a provocative installation it makes us reflect about what it means, and what the art will tell us about society, life or yourself. Everyone can get something different out of a good artwork, because it speaks directly to you and functions as a dialog, where you will have to finish the sentence with your interpretation taking our own life and experiences into the artwork.
We also have a lot of artist books. One of the most talented and popular artists right now are the world famous Dane Vilhelm Hammershøi. Hammershøi has a very significant way of painting giving voice to the melankolic side of the world and of us humans. The painter is famous for his artworks of especially white doors in his apartment in Copenhagen. In the paintings Hammershøi plays with light and shadow in a brilliant way giving room to both sides, which also could be seen as a reflection of life that contains both. The motive also makes the art watcher wonder what is on the other side of the doors or corridors making them compose a continuation of the painting. You can read about Hammershøi in an European context in the artist book Hammershoi and Europe

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