We a good story
Quick delivery in the UK

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.
Show more
Filter
Filter
Sort bySort Popular
  • by Patrick Potter
    £23.99

    New expanded 248pp 2019 Edition. The single best collection of photography of BanksyΓÇÖs street work that has ever been assembled for print. If that isnΓÇÖt enough there are some words too. You Are An Acceptable Level of Threat covers his entire street art career, spanning the late ''90s right up to the ΓÇÿSeasons GreetingsΓÇÖ Christmas 2018 piece in Port Talbot, Wales. This new edition includes his self-destructing ΓÇÿLove is in the BinΓÇÖ intervention, which according to Sotheby''s is "the first artwork in history to have been created live during an auction." The groundbreaking ΓÇÿDismalandΓÇÖ show, his Paris ΓÇÖ68 revisited works, The Walled Off Hotel, Brexit, Cans Festival, Brookyln and Basquiat, as well as new works from Gaza and New York. Also featuring the controversial ΓÇÿCheltenham SpiesΓÇÖ as well as ΓÇÿGirl with a Pearl EarringΓÇÖ, ΓÇÿArt BuffΓÇÖ and the spectacular ΓÇÿMobile LoversΓÇÖ which appeared outside Bristol Boys Boxing Club. 248 pages featuring his greatest works of art in context.

  • by Prince
    £18.99

    Prince Rogers Nelson is one of the most popular and influential musical acts of all time. Known for his style and range, Prince¿s prolific music career included an ever-evolving sound that blended pop, R&B, hip-hop, jazz and soul. Prince sold over 100 million albums worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time. He won seven GRAMMY¿ Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award¿ for the film ¿Purple Rain.¿ He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, the first year of his eligibility. Prince tragically passed away at his Paisley Park home on April 21, 2016. His legacy lives on through the timeless messages of love in his music and the countless ways his work has touched lives.Dan Piepenbring is a writer and former editor at The Paris Review.

  •  
    £24.49

    Textilepedia, a book that was published by Fashionary International Limited on the 17th of December, 2020, is an intriguing read that everyone should get their hands on. It's a book that delves into the world of textiles, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the subject. The author, whose name remains anonymous, has done an excellent job in compiling and presenting the information in a way that is both engaging and informative. The book falls under the genre of educational literature, making it a must-read for anyone interested in fashion, textiles, or simply looking to expand their knowledge. Fashionary International Limited, known for their quality publications, has once again delivered a masterpiece that is 'Textilepedia'. The book is written in English, catering to a wide range of readers globally. Don't miss out on this enlightening read!

  • - The Richard and Judy bookclub pick and Sunday Times Bestseller
    by Alex Michaelides
    £8.99

    With film rights snapped up by an Oscar winning Hollywood production company, rights sold in a world record 43 territories, and rave blurbs from David Baldacci, Lee Child and A.J. Finn, The Silent Patient promises to be the debut thriller of 2019.

  • by Marcin Batylda
    £27.49

    An insightful, captivatingly designed, full-color hardcover that transports readers to the futuristic megalopolis of Night City--the epicenter of the vibrant new action-RPG from CD Projekt Red.Step into the year 2077, a world dotted with dystopian metropoles where violence, oppression, and cyberware implants aren't just common--they're necessary tools to get ahead. Delve into incisive lore to discover how the economic decline of the United States created a crippling dependence on devious corporations and birthed the Free State of California. Explore the various districts, gangs, and history of Night City. Learn all there is to know about the technology of tomorrow and research the cybernetics, weapons, and vehicles of Cyberpunk 2077. Dark Horse Books and CD Projekt Red present The World of Cyberpunk 2077--an extensive examination of the rich lore of Cyberpunk 2077. This intricately assembled tome contains everything you need to know about the history, characters, and world of the long-awaited follow-up from the creators of The Witcher video game series.

  • - The White & Neutral Home
    by Chrissie Rucker
    £25.49

    The White Company, For the Love of White, is a captivating book written by Chrissie Rucker. Published by the Octopus Publishing Group in 2019, this book takes the readers on a mesmerizing journey. As a part of the genre of home and lifestyle, it offers a delightful exploration of the love for the color white in all its purity and elegance. Chrissie Rucker, the author, is renowned for her keen eye for design and aesthetics, which is brilliantly reflected in this book. The White Company is not just a book; it's an experience that transports you into a world where the color white reigns supreme. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates the beauty of simplicity in design. Published by the Octopus Publishing Group, this book stands as a testament to the author's love for white and her exceptional ability to bring it to life through her words.

  • - Drawing Course
    by Gerald M. Ackerman
    £44.99

    The Bargue-Gerome Drawing Course is a complete reprint of a famous, late nineteenth century drawing course.

  •  
    £99.99

    The Helmut Newton SUMO was a titanic book that towered above anything previously attempted. Twenty years later, we celebrate the legacy of this publishing venture in an XL edition, the result of a project conceived by Helmut Newton and revised by his wife June. Gathering 464 images and a new booklet that takes us through the making of the SUMO,...

  • - The World as You've Never Seen It Before
    by Patricia Schultz
    £34.49

    A photo-driven, deluxe gift-book edition of the bestselling travel book of all time, Patricia Schultz's #1 New York Times bestseller 1,000 Places to See Before You Die.

  • - Homes and Interiors under the Southern Sun
     
    £28.49

    Warme Erdtöne, handgewebte Teppiche, Rattanmöbel und farbenfrohe Keramik treffen in hellen Räumen auf Sichtbeton und Glas. The New Mediterranean stellt die neue mediterrane Wohnkultur vor, bei der sich sonnige Folklore mit klassischer Moderne verbindet. Das Buch blickt in Wohnungen und Sommerhäuser auf der ganzen Welt und versammelt inspirierende Wohn- und Dekorationsideen. Neben Porträts wegweisender Designer und Architekten stellt The New Mediterranean traditionelle Handwerkskunst vor und zeigt, wie man auch Tausende Kilometer vom Mittelmeerraum entfernt ein mediterranes Wohngefühl erzeugen kann.

  • - Search for David Bowie in Berlin, Studio 54, Outer Space and more...
    by Kev Gahan
    £8.99

    This book is a reverent and interactive homage to David Bowie, with dense illustrations of the many real and imagined universes of his own making. Hidden somewhere on each of these double page spreads, a Bowie is patiently waiting to be spotted by the well-trained eye of a fan. As the chameleonic Bowie took on so many iconic personas across his illustrious career, each moment is celebrated chronologically in this book. You will have to find young and dapper David Jones in 1960s Brixton; look for Ziggy Stardust in spaced out Outer Space, crawling with Martian spiders and nestled between the stars; then search for glam Bowie among the revellers at Studio 54; and ask yourself, "is that the Thin White Duke outside Hansa By the Wall in late-70s Berlin?” Each page of this book is so laden with Bowie references that you might even pick up a factoid or two in your search. With fun, detailed illustrations that explore Bowie's world - and that of his influences - Where's Bowie is the perfect guide to the cultural icon for both adults and children. Plus, who doesn't want to raise their kid as a Bowie super-geek? No one - that's who.

  • by Julia Tremaine
    £18.99

    Filled with delicious recipes inspired by the hit television series, this cookbook allows fans to experience the world of Supernatural like never before.

  • - The Story of "Abbey Road" and the End of the Beatles
    by Kenneth Womack
    £21.49

    Acclaimed Beatles historian Kenneth Womack offers the most definitive account yet of the writing, recording, mixing, and reception of Abbey Road.In February 1969, the Beatles began working on what became their final album together. Abbey Road introduced a number of new techniques and technologies to the Beatles' sound, and included "Come...

  • by Felwine Sarr
    £18.99

  •  
    £12.99

    Invaluable tutorials and insightful tips make Beginner's Guide to Fantasy Drawing a perfect start to your fantasy art journey.

  • by Sarah Simblet
    £18.99

    Sarah Simblet unveils the extraordinary construction of the human body and celebrates its continuing prominence in Western Art today.

  • by Jane Bastien, Lisa Bastien & Lori Bastien
    £6.99

    Theory & Ear Training Party books correlate with their respective level Piano Party books. They provide reinforcement of the concepts presented in Piano Party, especially through listening and writing plus improvising and composing activities. Students learn through sequential games and exercises designed to hold their interest.

  • - A Retrospective
     
    £48.99

    First comprehensive monograph on contemporary Danish artist Michael Kvium, mapping-out his entire career in painting, drawing, and sculpture.

  • by Architectural Digest
    £61.49

    Architectural Digest at 100: A Century of Style is an incredible book written by none other than Architectural Digest. This book, published in 2019, is a true testament to the enduring style and substance of Architectural Digest. It is a comprehensive and deeply researched book that takes you through a century of style and design. The book is a compilation of the most beautiful homes in the world, all beautifully photographed and presented. The genre of this book is Architecture and Design. Published by Abrams, this book is a must-have for anyone interested in design, architecture, or simply beautiful homes. It's a book that will inspire you and make you appreciate the beauty of design even more. In this book, you'll find a century's worth of innovative and inspiring designs, all brought to you by the trusted experts at Architectural Digest. This book is a testament to their expertise and dedication to the world of design. So, if you're looking for a book that will inspire, educate, and entertain, Architectural Digest at 100: A Century of Style is the book for you.

  • by Karen Homer
    £11.49

    The illustrated story of Christian Dior's early life, the brand's inception, the triumphs of the couture collections on the catwalk and the red carpet, and the brand's journey after the death of its founder.

  • by Chelsea Monroe-Cassel
    £18.99

    The Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge Cookbook is the ultimate source for creating out-of-this-world meals and treats all the way from Black Spire Outpost.

  • - A Complete Overview Of The Maya History & Maya Mythology
    by Eric Brown
    £12.49 - 18.99

  • - The Prince Issue (Vol. 2)
    by Chris (University of Bath UK) Williams
    £31.99

    Our new version of the classic Wax Poetics music journal!Wax Poetics Issue 67 contains all-new content featuring interviews and write-ups on a slew of Prince's albums, including 1978's 'For You,' 1986's 'Parade,' 1987's 'Sign O the Times,' 1988's 'Lovesexy,' 1991's 'Diamonds and Pearls,' and 1995's 'The Gold Experience'-with interviews from engineer Chris Moon, manager Owen Husney, engineer Susan Rogers, producer/engineer David Z, poet Ingrid Chavez, tour manager Alan Leeds, dancer Cat Glover, saxophonist Eric Leeds, guitarist and bandleader Levi Seacer Jr., engineer Michael Koppelman, trombonist Michael B. Nelson, and keyboardist Tommy Barbarella.Issue 67 also includes standalone interviews with Jill Jones, Andre Cymone, and members of the Revolution: Doctor Fink, Bobby Z., Brown Mark, and Wendy & Lisa.Also included is 12 pages of album artwork. 118 pages in all. No advertisements.

  • - The Slow Home
    by Natalie Walton
    £23.49

    A stunning visual journey through the homes of people from around the world who have taken steps to simplify their lives and embrace the principles of slow living

  • by Julian Watson
    £28.49

    In an era of high-tech and climate extremes, we are drowning in information while starving for wisdom. Enter Lo-TEK, a design movement building on indigenous philosophy and vernacular infrastructure to generate sustainable, resilient, nature-based technology. With a foreword by anthropologist Wade Davis and spanning 18 countries from Peru and...

  • by Naughty Dog Naughty Dog
    £33.99

    The Art of The Last of Us Part II, penned by the creative minds at Naughty Dog Naughty Dog, is a mesmerizing journey into the world of one of the most critically acclaimed video games. This book, published by Dark Horse Comics, U.S., in 2020, offers an exclusive look into the immersive art and design that brought the game to life. As a reader, you're invited to witness the development of the game from the earliest concept art stages to the final, detailed production pieces. This book is a must-have for fans of the genre and a testament to the game's artistry. Dive into the captivating post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us Part II, and appreciate the depth of detail and creative vision that Naughty Dog has brought to the gaming industry.

  • by Linda Bloomfield
    £18.99

  • - Highlands, Islands, Lochs & Legends
    by Claudia Martin
    £8.99 - 15.49

    Scotland is a fascinating exploration of the most beautiful country of the British Isles. From the pretty Georgian streets of Edinburgh's New Town to the Victorian grandeur and Art Deco delights of Glasgow, from the remote islands in the Hebrides to the bustle of the Edinburgh Festival - the book is packed with 200 spectacular colour photographs.

  • - Find Inspiration Every Day in the Natural World
    by Lorna Scobie
    £13.49

    Nature-inspired art activities and creative prompts for every day of the year

  • by Nick Cave
    £28.49

    A Sunday Times top ten bestseller. A journey in images and words into the creative world of musician, storyteller and cultural icon Nick Cave

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

Join thousands of book lovers

Sign up to our newsletter and receive discounts and inspiration for your next reading experience.