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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 The Juliet Journal
    £10.99

    Decorate your junk journal and relieve stress at the same time with these 300 vintage-inspired botanical cutouts (plus stickers).

  • Save 14%
    by George Monbiot
    £9.49

    Regenesis is a captivating book penned by the acclaimed author, George Monbiot. Published in 2023 by Penguin Books Ltd (UK), this masterpiece is a must-read for those who are intrigued by innovative thoughts and ideas. The genre of the book is not specifically mentioned, but Monbiot's works usually revolve around environmental and political themes. Regenesis, like his other works, is likely to challenge your perspectives and provoke thought. It's a book that promises to take you on a journey, exploring new dimensions of understanding. So, if you are looking for a book that is compelling and intellectually stimulating, Regenesis by George Monbiot is the one for you.

  • Save 24%
    by Kaffe Fassett
    £18.99

  • Save 14%
    by Rachel Gillig
    £9.49

  • Save 28%
    by Darrell Young
    £27.49

    Olympus launched the OM-D E-M5 Mark III camera with a specific purpose in mind: to create a Micro Four Thirds camera for advanced enthusiast and professional photographers who prefer a smaller, yet very powerful mirrorless camera. The E-M5 Mark III is a true system camera for those who demand the best in cameras, lenses, and image quality.Darrell Young and Jim Johnson's Mastering the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III explores the features and capabilities of the camera in a way that far surpasses the user's manual. It is designed to guide readers through the camera's features with step-by-step setting adjustments; color illustrations; and detailed how, when, and why explanations for each option. Every button, dial, switch, lever, and menu configuration setting is explored in a user-friendly manner, with suggestions for setup according to various shooting styles.The authors' friendly and informative writing style allows readers to easily follow directions while feeling as if a friend dropped in to share his knowledge. The learning experience for new E-M5 III users goes beyond just the camera itself and covers basic photography technique.

  • Save 28%
    by Darrell Young
    £27.49

    Mastering the Nikon D500 by Darrell Young provides a wealth of experience-based information and insights for owners of the new D500 camera. Darrell is determined to help the user navigate past the confusion that often comes with complex and powerful professional camera equipment. This book explores the features and capabilities of the camera in a way that far surpasses the user's manual. It guides readers through the camera features with step-by-step setting adjustments; color illustrations; and detailed how, when, and why explanations for each option. Every button, dial, switch, and menu configuration setting is explored in a user-friendly manner, with suggestions for setup according to various shooting styles. Darrell's friendly and informative writing style allows readers to easily follow directions while feeling as if a friend dropped in to share his knowledge. The information in this book goes beyond the camera itself and also covers basic photography technique.

  • Save 27%
    by Studio Ghibli
    £23.99

    Studio Ghibli: The Complete Works, Author: Studio Ghibli, Publication Year: 2022-12-06, Publisher: Random House LCC US, Language: eng

  • Save 27%
    by Bill Leung
    £25.49

    "The family behind the acclaimed blog The Woks of Life shares 100 of their favorite home-cooked and restaurant-style Chinese recipes. While briefly living on different continents, Judy, Bill, Sarah, and Kaitlin Leung created the beloved blog The Woks of Life to document their family's history and traditions through food. Now, in their first cookbook, they present an in-depth and unique approach to the Chinese table with stories and recipes from each family member: heritage dishes from Judy, who was born and raised in Shanghai; restaurant-inspired dishes from Bill, who comes from a long line of chefs and cooked with his father in Chinese restaurants in upstate New York and New Jersey; and trend-driven, easy weeknight and vegetable-forward recipes from their millennial daughters, Kaitlin and Sarah. With four multi-generational voices in one book, the Leungs share a wide range of dishes, from simple and approachable meals like Shortcut Dan Dan Noodles and Sesame Crusted Tofu to celebratory ones like Cantonese Roast Duck and a whole collection of dim sum favorites. Kicking off the book is a wonderfully comprehensive look at how to build your Chinese pantry and fridge, essential tools (including the all-important wok), and the low-down on game-changing Chinese cooking secrets like how to "velvet" meat to make it extra tender and juicy. Woven through these treasured techniques and recipes are never-before-seen family stories from China and their home in New Jersey. Featuring gorgeous full-color photography alongside the recipes, The Woks of Life offers advice and traditions that will deepen your knowledge and empower your culinary growth-whether you're new to Chinese cooking or you already dabble in bean paste and chili oil"--

  • Save 20%
    by Chris Mitchell
    £25.49

  • Save 15%
    by Maggie Nelson
    £10.99

  • Save 27%
    by Rolling Stone
    £25.49

  • Save 21%
    by Quincy Jones
    £14.99

    Wisdom and musings on creativity and life from one of the world¿s most beloved musicians, producers, and mentors, Quincy Jones12 Notes is a self-development guide that will affirm that creativity is a calling that can and should be answered, no matter your age or experience. Drawing from his own life, and those of his many creative collaborators past and present, Quincy Jones presents readers with lessons that are hardworking and accessible, yet speak to the passion of self-expression. He includes sections as deep as how to transform grief into power, and as practical as how to set goals and articulate intentions through daily affirmations. Weaving his story throughout, Jones lets readers in on his own creative process, as well as the importance of letting honesty, hard work, and good relationships drive your career.

  • Save 27%
    by Jessica Hundley
    £21.99

    Der vierte Band der Bibliothek der Esoterik erforscht die Geschichte der Pflanzen in Mythen und magischen Praktiken. Essays, Interviews und mehr als 400 Abbildungen - von ägyptischen Reliefs über viktorianische Pflanzendarstellungen bis zu zeitgenössischen Werken - dokumentieren die symbiotische Beziehung zwischen Pflanzen und Menschen. Über die Reihe Die Bibliothek der Esoterik zeigt, wie in der Kunst über die Jahrhunderte hinweg mystische und obskure Inhalte ihren Ausdruck in zeitlosen, visionären Bilder fanden. Von Privatsammlungen, Bibliotheken und Museen aus aller Welt zur Verfügung gestellt, werden für jedes Thema ausgesuchte moderne und zeitgenössische Werke mit historischen Darstellungen konfrontiert. Kurze, aber sorgfältig recherchierte Texte vermitteln den Kontext und andere relevante Informationen. Das Ergebnis ist eine umfassende Erforschung der Bilderwelten, die Menschen schufen, um Träumen und Albträumen auf die Spur zu kommen und sich selbst in Beziehung zum Göttlichen zu setzen.

  • Save 10%
    by Hernan Diaz
    £8.99

    From Hernn Diaz, Pulitzer finalist and author of &i>In the Distance&/i>, &i>Trust&/i> is a novel of extraordinary ambition and scope, told in four parts that slowly reveal the real woman behind the stories written about her by others. For fans of Kate Atkinson and Donna Tartt, &i>Trust &/i>is an American classic in the making.

  • Save 23%
    by Daniel Wildenstein
    £15.49 - 35.49

    Claude Monet's Impressionist technique still inspires to this day. Whether it's his stunning Water Lilies series, or genre-defining Impression, Sunrise, discover what made Monet the master of French 19th-century art in this exuberant exploration of his life and work.

  • Save 29%
    by Square Enix
    £33.99

    Encyclopaedia Eorzea -the World Of Final Fantasy Xiv- is a captivating masterpiece by the renowned author, Square Enix. Published in 2022, this book falls under the genre of fantasy, and it takes the reader on an exciting journey through the world of Final Fantasy XIV. The author, who is also the publisher, Square Enix, has meticulously crafted a narrative that is both engrossing and insightful. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the game's lore, making it an essential read for fans and newcomers alike. Published by Square Enix, this book is a testament to their commitment to providing high-quality content for their audience. Encyclopaedia Eorzea -the World Of Final Fantasy Xiv- is more than just a book; it's an immersive experience that transports you to a world of adventure and fantasy.

  • by Zora O'Neill & Lonely Planet
    £7.99

    Lonely Planet's Pocket Athens is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Marvel at the Acropolis raised spectacularly over Athens, follow in the footsteps of Socrates at the Agora and step into the Temple of Olympian Zeus- all with your trusted travel companion.

  • Save 29%
    - A Historical Review of Four Fashion Icons
    by Emma Baxter-Wright
    £35.49

    The second boxed set of the stories of four more iconic fashion houses, including images of their designs and text on the personalities behind the brands.

  • Save 27%
    - Remembering in Paint
    by Kate Reeve-Edwards
    £25.49

    David Mankin is a contemporary painter of abstract landscapes based in Cornwall. A series of sell-out shows and an international following has generated widespread interest in how Mankin creates his evocative paintings. This book explores his creative process in detail providing the reader access to the sources and influences that inform his work.

  • - 2,700 Stickers for Every Mood
    by Pipsticks®+Workman®
    £9.99

  • Save 27%
  • Save 28%
    by Square Enix
    £27.49

    Experience the rich world of Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood once more via this exhaustive collection of concept art and illustrations, including character designs, field areas, dungeons, monsters, equipment, and more. The Art of the Revolution -Western Memories- also features commentary from the art team on how costumes are created. Book one of a two-book set with The Art of the Revolution -Eastern Memories-. Includes an exclusive bonus item code for an in-game Wind-up Yotsuyu minion!

  • Save 20%
    - A Complete Course in Drawing Manga Cuties
    by Yoai
    £11.99

    Anime Art Class, penned by the talented Yoai, is a must-have for all art enthusiasts and anime lovers. Published in 2021 by Rock Point, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. Yoai, a renowned artist in the anime world, shares her techniques and tips in this comprehensive guide. The book dives deep into the genre of anime, a popular form of Japanese animation that has taken the world by storm. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist, this book offers valuable insights into the vibrant and dynamic world of anime art. Grab your copy today and embark on an exciting journey of art and creativity with Yoai's Anime Art Class.

  • Save 15%
    by Albert Algoud
    £10.99

    A sparklingly funny celebration of Herge's most beloved character via his legendary exclamations!

  • Save 24%
    - Haarkon's world tour of amazing botanical spaces
    by Magnus Edmondson & India Hobson
    £17.49

    Greenhouses have universal appeal, fusing together cultures and countries under one glass roof. In their new book, photographers India Hobson and Magnus Edmondson take you on a worldwide journey through their favourite botanical spaces.

  • Save 23%
    - Techniques, Tips, and Tricks for Slabs, Coils, and More
    by Sunshine Cobb
    £16.99

  • Save 27%
    by H.P. Lovecraft
    £21.99

    Arkham, 1933. Professor Dyer, a prominent geologist, learns that a scientific expedition will soon leave for Antarctica following in the footsteps of the journey which he himself had made in 1931. In the hope of dissuading the attempt, Dyer decides to make a full account of the tragic events he had survived, this time without omitting the passages which he had kept silent about on his return, for fear of being taken for a madman.Two years earlier, ships chartered by Miskatonic University had landed on the frozen continent at the start of the Antarctic summer, and the group of four professors and sixteen students set to work immediately. The expedition biologist, Professor Lake, left with several members of the team to follow a promising fossil track. After just a few days, he announced by radio that he had discovered astonishing specimens of an unknown ancient species, before stopping all communication after a terrible storm. Guessing the worst, Dyer went to their rescue the next day. What he discovered went beyond his wildest fears ...

  • Save 13%
    - The Inside Story of the Megadeth Masterpiece
    by Joel Selvin & Dave Mustaine
    £12.99

    The inside story of the making of the speed metal masterpiece Rust in Peace by the lead vocalist and guitarist of Megadeth, the original lead guitarist of Metallica, and the author of the NYT bestseller, Mustaine

  • Save 15%
    - The Fun, Easy Way to Learn to Draw in One Month or Less
    by Mark Kistler
    £14.49

    From public television's favorite drawing teacher, a quick, easy, and entertaining drawing method

  • Save 29%
    - THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER Two Nights That Will Live Forever
    by Jill Furmanovsky
    £31.99

    An access-all-areas book marking the 25th anniversary of the era-defining Oasis concerts at Knebworth, with stunning images taken by acclaimed music photographer Jill Furmanovsky - including contributions from Noel Gallagher and Alan McGee, and hundreds of never-before-seen pictures.

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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