Conversations on the Art of Living - Davis Mankowitz Tapes

In this episode, we delve into the themes of mortality, legacy, creative evolution, and cultural reflections. Wolf shares candid anecdotes about his near-death experiences, battles with cancer, and ideological journeys during and after World War II. This episode offers a unique perspective on the interplay between personal experiences and broader historical events, highlighting Wolf's resilience and professional dedication in t...

This episode spans a wide array of topics, from the early struggles and inspirations of Wolf’s writing career to his experiences in Hollywood and reflections on artistic ambition. This episode delves deep into themes such as the practical realities of a writing career, the evolution of creative pursuits, and the delicate balance between commercial success and artistic integrity. Through candid anecdotes and insightful reflections, ...

⁠The first conversation explores the intersection of art and commerce, examining the economic realities of filmmaking and the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success. Wolf shares his experiences as a student, practitioner, and entrepreneur in the arts. The second conversation transports listeners to Italy, where Wolf recounts his vibrant experiences working with notable figures like Carlo Ponti and Richard Burton

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This episode delves into Wolf's transition from narrative storytelling to the abstract realms of Dadaism and surrealism. Highlighting how art became a therapeutic lifeline for him, the episode explores themes of mortality, creativity, and the unpredictable intersections of life and art. With vivid anecdotes and reflections, Wolf shares his late-life ventures into visual arts, emphasizing the profound impact of unconscious creat...

This episode takes us on a journey from the bustling streets of London to the serene landscapes of Ireland, exploring how his environment shaped his artistic journey and personal growth. Wolf shares his experiences escaping the pressures of the film industry, his reflections on class and Jewish identity, and his contributions to the Irish film scene. Along the way, we uncover personal stories, historical references, and cultural di...

In this episode, we have a double feature of sorts, we explore the vibrant tapestry of London's past and the glamorous yet gritty world of 20th-century cinema and theatre through the life of Wolf Mankowitz. First, we visit the East End of London, delving into the immigrant community's resilience and Wolf's early ventures in commerce. Then, we transition to his illustrious career in Hollywood, highlighting his storytelli...

This episode delves into the enigmatic world of iconic figures from Hollywood's golden era, exploring the complex interplay between their dazzling public personas and their private struggles. Wolf Mankowitz shares poignant insights from his personal and professional relationships with stars like Peter Sellers and Richard Burton. Through his stories, we see the psychological burdens and identity crises that often accompany stard...

Welcome to "Conversations on the Art of Living," where we start at the end. Wolf with decades of experiences shares poignant tales and musings about the luminaries he's encountered along the way—figures like Alexander Korda and Orson Welles. Through stories of loss, legacy, and the passage of time, this episode isn't just a recount of the departed; it's a celebration of the indelible marks they've left on ...

A trailer to a limited podcast series coming soon:

Explore the depths of creativity and the human experience in 'Conversations on the Art of Living,' where host Les Davis curates profound dialogues between writer Wolf Mankowitz and artist Gerald Davis from their 1992 recordings. Journey through their reflections on art, culture, legacy, and the echoes of wartime, captured in a series of audio cassettes. Delve into topics sp...