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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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  • by Slash
    £9.49

    It seems excessive...but that doesn't mean it didn't happen.The mass of black curls. The top hat. The cigarette dangling from pouty lips. These are the trademarks of one of the world's greatest and most revered guitarists, a celebrity musician known by one name: Slash.Saul "e;Slash"e; Hudson was born in Hampstead to a Jewish father and a black American mother who created David Bowie's look in The Man Who Fell to Earth. He was raised in Stoke until he was 11, when he and his mother moved to LA. Frequent visitors to the house were David Bowie, Joni Mitchell, Ronnie Wood and Iggy Pop.At this time Slash got into BMX bikes and would eventually turn professional, winning major awards and money, but at 15 his grandmother gave him his first guitar. Sessions with numerous local LA rock bands followed until a fateful meeting with singer W Axl Rose...and the rest was rock history. Guns N' Roses spent two years builiding their reputation before Appetite for Destruction was unleashed on an unsuspecting world.Chart success and global domination followed but with it came the inevitable fall - addicted to heroin, booze and cigarettes the band imploded in a rift between Axl and Slash that is as deep today as ever. But with a new wife, kids and new band Velvet Revolver, Slash is back on track. As raucous and edgy as his music, Slash sets the record straight and tells the real story as only Slash can.

  • by Matthew (Registered Architect) Frederick
    £14.99

  • by James Longworth
    £9.99

    Helps young guitarists to start at beginner level and progresses to Initial/Preparatory Grade. This work explains the method in 15 stages and contains original pieces and traditional tunes in different styles including classical, folk and world music as well as favourite film and TV themes such as "James Bond", "Batman" and "The Flintstones".

  • - The International Network of Conceptual Artists 1967-77 - Dealers, Exhibitions and Public Collections
    by Sophie Richard
    £34.49

    Emerging in the late 1960s, Conceptual art was spurred by a network of artists, dealers, curators and critics. These little-known connections are detailed for the first time in this indispensable volume. A detailed account of a decade of artistic activity is accompanied by an extensive set of previously unpublished data, charting the exhibitions and sales of Conceptual works to galleries, public institutions and private collections. The relationships, support structures and strategies of dealer galleries - such as Konrad Fischer, Wide White Space and Lisson Gallery to promote artists such as Marcel Broodthaers, Richard Long and Lawrence Weiner - are revealed and make fascinating reading. Including numerous interviews with key figures of the period, Unconcealed exposes the new dealing, curatorial, collecting and teaching methods formed in this decade that continue to be critical to today's art world.

  • by Fanny Waterman & Marion Harewood
    £9.49

    Suitable for older beginners, this book features chapters that guide young players towards the successful performance of a comprehensive selection of pieces and studies. It includes pieces by Bach, Gurlitt, Mozart, Gounod and Tchaikovsky. It also contains appendices of scales, arpeggios and exercises.

  • by Fanny Waterman & Marion Harewood
    £9.49

    Suitable for older beginners, this book features chapters that guide young players towards the successful performance of a comprehensive selection of pieces and studies. It introduces more advanced pieces and a wider range of repertoire from CPE Bach and WF Bach, Farnaby and Couperin, to Kabelevsky and Britten.

  • by David Byrne
    £14.99

    David Byrne's internationally bestselling magnum opus on the subject of music

  • - Everything you Need to Start Drawing Right Away!
    by C Hart
    £14.99

    Shows how to draw the basic manga head and body, eyes, fashion and more. This book explores dynamic action poses, special effects, light and shading, perspective, popular manga types such as animals, anthros, shoujo and shounen characters.

  • by John Berger
    £8.99

    How do we see the world around us? The Penguin on Design series includes the works of creative thinkers whose writings on art, design and the media have changed our vision forever. "e;Seeing comes before words. The child looks and recognizes before it can speak."e;"e;But there is also another sense in which seeing comes before words. It is seeing which establishes our place in the surrounding world; we explain that world with words, but word can never undo the fact that we are surrounded by it. The relation between what we see and what we know is never settled."e; John Berger's Ways of Seeing is one of the most stimulating and influential books on art in any language. First published in 1972, it was based on the BBC television series about which the (London) Sunday Times critic commented: "e;This is an eye-opener in more ways than one: by concentrating on how we look at paintings . . . he will almost certainly change the way you look at pictures."e; By now he has.

  • by Tomoko Nakamichi
    £15.49

    "Pattern Magic" is the cult pattern-cutting book from Japan. Taking inspiration from nature, from geometric shapes and from the street, this book harnesses the sheer joy of making and sculpting clothes.

  • by Archive For Research in Archetypal Symbolism (aras)
    £20.99

    This encyclopedia explores the hidden meanings of visual symbols across time and geography, from the sun to whales and the human hand. Spanning different eras and cultures, over 800 beautiful images combine with expert illuminations of symbol history, meanings, and psychic associations, offering readers a precious and fascinating resource for...

  • - Volume I Sixth Edition (C Instruments)
     
    £36.49

    The Real Books are the best-selling jazz books of all time. Since the 1970s, musicians have trusted these volumes to get them through every gig, night after night. The problem is that the books were illegally produced and distributed, without any regard to copyright law, or royalties paid to the composers who created these musical masterpieces. Hal Leonard is very proud to present the first legitimate and legal editions of these books ever produced. You won't even notice the difference, other than that all of the notorious errors have been fixed: the covers and typeface look the same, the song list is nearly identical, and the price for our edition is even cheaper than the original! Every conscientious musician will appreciate that these books are now produced accurately and ethically, benefitting the songwriters that we owe for some of the greatest tunes of all time! Includes 400 songs: All Blues * Au Privave * Autumn Leaves * Black Orpheus * Bluesette * Body and Soul * Bright Size Life * Con Alma * Dolphin Dance * Don't Get Around Much Anymore * Easy Living * Epistrophy * Falling in Love with Love * Footprints * Four on Six * Giant Steps * Have You Met Miss Jones? * How High the Moon * I'll Remember April * Impressions * Lullaby of Birdland * Misty * My Funny Valentine * Oleo * Red Clay * Satin Doll * Sidewinder * Stella by Starlight * Take Five * There Is No Greater Love * Wave * and hundreds more!

  • by Bethesda Softworks
    £33.99

    Bethesda Game Studios, the award-winning creators of Fallout® 3 and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim®, welcome you to the world of Fallout® 4 - their most ambitious game ever, and the next generation of open-world gaming. The Art of Fallout 4 is a must-have collectible for fans and an ultimate resource for every Wasteland wanderer. Featuring 368 oversize pages, never-before-seen designs, and concept art from the game's dynamic environments, iconic characters, detailed weapons, and more -- along with commentary from the developers themselves.

  • by Keith Richards
    £10.99

    Once-in-a-generation memoir of a rock legend - the No. 1 SUNDAY TIMES bestseller. 'A masterpiece' The Word 'Electrifying' New York Times

  • by Richard E. Williams
    £28.49 - 38.49

  • - A Hidden Inheritance
    by Edmund de Waal
    £10.99

    The Hare With Amber Eyes is a captivating book by Edmund de Waal, published in 2011 by Vintage Publishing. This entrancing novel falls under the genre of non-fiction and is a must-read for those who appreciate a blend of history, family saga, and memoirs. The story traces the journey of a collection of small Japanese carvings through generations of the illustrious Ephrussi family. The author, Edmund de Waal, masterfully weaves a narrative that is both deeply personal and historically significant, making this book an unforgettable read. The Hare With Amber Eyes is not just a book, but a doorway into a time gone by, a testament to the endurance of love and family in the face of adversity. This book, published by Vintage Publishing, is a treasure to be savored.

  • by Patti Smith
    £10.99

    Just Kids is a captivating book written by the legendary Patti Smith. Published by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC in 2011, the book is a must-read for anyone interested in the genre of memoirs. Patti Smith, an icon in the world of music, art, and literature, takes us on a journey through her early years in New York City and her intimate friendship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. The memoir is a testament to Smith's unique talent for combining prose and poetry. It is a story of youth and friendship, art and struggle, and ultimately, the power of creativity in the most challenging circumstances. Just Kids is more than just a book; it's a portrait of a time and place, a love letter to creativity, and a reminder of the transformative power of art. Published by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC, this book is a testament to Patti Smith's enduring talent and influence.

  • by Bjarke Ingels
    £28.49

    Through scorching heat to unforgiving chills, BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group presents a dazzling round-up of adaptive architecture in extreme environments around the world. In coordination with a major exhibition at the National Building Museum, Washington, 60 case studies show how structures can become holistic ecosystems of both economic and...

  • by Tomoko Nakamichi
    £15.49

    Der Nachfolgeband von Pattern Magic. Mit neuen Schritt-für-Schritt-Projekten für Modedesigner und Schneider. Die leicht verständlichen Illustrationen und detaillierten Anleitungen machen es einfach, atemberaubende, skulpturale Kleidung zu entwerfen.

  • by Andrew Loomis
    £21.99

    The illustrator Andrew Loomis (1892-1959) is revered amongst artists - including comics superstar Alex Ross - for his mastery of figure drawing and his clean, realist style.

  • by Stefano Tonchi
    £51.99

    An unprecedented publication showcasing Gucci as never before, including thought-provoking essays, commentaries, and authoritative anecdotes along with previously unpublished contemporary and archival photographs. Published in conjunction with the opening of the new Gucci Museum in Florence, Gucci is the ultimate celebration of the world-renowned fashion house. Told through a loose grouping of words, concepts, shapes, and moods, the book tells its story through new conceptual forms and the free links between images, symbols, and objects. Edited by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, with essays and inserts by contributors including Katie Grand, Peter Arnell, Rula Jebreal, Christopher Breward and Stefano Micelli, Gucci: The Making Of is a dynamic record of a much-coveted brand that will be a must this season for anyone with a love of fashion and an interest in contemporary culture. This comprehensive volume showcases the genius of the fashion house through an exclusive lens with inside looks into the inspirations behind the design.This gorgeous book designed by Arnell offers an in-depth look into Gucci's origins, identity, influence, and innovation, including fabrication methods and appropriation of signature materials, past and present, and its influence among high society and Hollywood. The book is a heartfelt and personalized tribute to the heritage and influence of this iconic, multifaceted brand. In recognition of its ongoing partnership with UNICEF and the release of this luxury edition, Gucci will make a donation of US $250,000 to support UNICEF's Schools for Africa initiative.

  • - Street Photographer
    by Vivian Maier
    £27.49

    A collection of discovered street photography from post-war America.

  • by Andrew Loomis
    £21.99

    The human head and hands are the most difficult elements in figure drawing. This title offers a solution for such drawing.

  • - The Most Important Rap Song From Every Year Since 1979, Discussed, Debated, and Deconstructed
    by Shea Serrano
    £14.99

    An informative, illustrated guide to the 35 of the most important rap songs ever released

  • by Dark Horse
    £27.49

    Embark on a fascinating journey through the world of Hyrule with 'The Legend Of Zelda: Hyrule Historia'. This masterpiece is penned by none other than Shigeru Miyamoto, one of the most respected figures in the gaming industry. Published in 2013, this book offers an in-depth look into the rich history and intricate lore of the Legend of Zelda series. From its captivating characters to its iconic locations, every aspect of Hyrule is brilliantly brought to life in this book. As a bonus, it also features an exclusive comic by Akira Himekawa. Published by Dark Horse Comics, this book is a must-have for any avid fan of the franchise. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer, 'The Legend Of Zelda: Hyrule Historia' promises to provide an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of gaming's most beloved franchises.

  • - Or, You Can't Survive on Ideas Alone From the creator of Netflix phenomenon Outside
    by Bo Burnham
    £11.99

    Sometimes funny, sometimes serious, mostly absurd collection of poetry and essays from comedy superstar and creator of Netflix phenomenon Inside Bo Burnham.

  • - New Complete Edition
    by Josef Albers
    £14.99 - 177.99

    One of the most influential books on colour ever published, Josef Albers' "Interaction of Color" is a masterwork. This book replicates Albers' revolutionary exercises, explaining concepts such as colour relativity and vibrating and vanishing boundaries through the use of colour, shape, die-cut forms, and movable flaps.

  • - A Course in Enhancing Creativity and Artistic Confidence: definitive 4th edition
    by Betty Edwards
    £15.49

    The world's most popular drawing-instruction book from a leading expert.

  • - 307 Assignments and Ideas
    by Jason Fulford & Gregory Halpern
    £16.49

    Over 250 inspiring and fun photography assignments from leading photographers and educators, including John Baldessari, Elinor Carucci, Sandra Phillips, Stephen Shore, and Alec Soth

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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