Drawing on a childhood fascination with gamebooks and magazine cover art, Russell Thorne developed a keen appreciation for heroic narratives and mythological lore. His academic pursuits in English Literature, which introduced him to the epic worlds of Homer and Beowulf, laid the groundwork for his career as a writer and editor. Thorne's work often delves into alternative cultures and the supernatural, exploring their visual and cultural dimensions with a unique perspective. His writing blends these diverse interests with a journalist's eye for detail, offering readers compelling and insightful explorations.
A popular phenomenon in the modern era, sightings of mermaids have been recorded throughout history, appearing in times of trouble and disaster. These elusive creatures exist in imaginative literature and have become a source of inspiration for artists. This delightful history is illustrated primarily by fantasy work from contemporary artists.
Unicorns have appeared in mythological and religious texts for thousands of years. This beautiful new book contains a huge range of gorgeous unicorns, painted in many different styles by modern artists, but all treated with the respect and wonder such a creature deserves.
Superhero movies have gripped the imagination since the 1950s when the film version of Superman burst onto a scene now dominated by blockbuster events from Marvel and DC. Avengers, Iron Man, Dark Knight, Judge Dredd, Hellboy and the Rocketeer all make an appearance in this fully illustrated, nostalgia driven retro history.
The Day of the Dead is a festival of culture and youth, a celebration of life in death.The beautiful rituals, the sugar skulls, the costumes and the festivities have grown into a massive counter culture: art, movies, cartoons and literature have been consumed by the brilliant power of the Day of the Dead, tendered here in this lively new book.
Over 140 photographs of expressive and unconventional street art images from around the world, as well as a fascinating discussion of the styles, techniques and inspirations of both infamous artists and unknown talents. Street Art is a fantastic foray into the unique and extremely creative world of this art form.
'Warriors & Heroes' is a stunning display of contemporary fantasy art, a complement to its bestselling predecessor, 'Dragon Art'. The 'Masters & Origins' section discusses influences such as Roy G. Krenkel, the Hildebrandt Brothers and Frazetta, and is then followed by a large selection of the best of the current crop of fantasy artists.
From demons and supernatural chills, through psychos and slashers, to body horror, monsters, zombies and vampires, Cult Horror discusses the curious, hilarious and grisly films that have been awarded the 'cult' badge over the years, alongside iconic and moody film stills and posters.
The launch of Stephenie Meyer's Twilight books and the blockbuster movies brought a storm of interest in the gothic to the willing minds of an entire generation of young adults. The lure of the forbidden, romantic imagination is boldy brought to life in this beautiful new book.
Zombies continue to fascinate with major film releases World War Z and television series 'The Walking Dead' and 'In The Flesh'. This exciting book celebrates the rise of the zombie in media and culture, alongside an eye-grabbing selection of artworks.
Over 140 photographs full of character and attitude showcase the many styles of tattoo, while a fascinating discussion of tattooing as cultural phenomenon and art form runs alongside. Feature spreads are dispersed throughout dedicated to talented tattoo artists, with photographs showing the progression of pieces from design to finished tattoo.