Yoan Leviev

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Yoan Isakov Leviev (October 31, 1934 – March 11, 1994) was a Bulgarian artist from Plovdiv known for painting and large public works like mosaics and murals. He was part of the Plovdiv School of the 1960s, also called the April Generation, a group of artists that included Encho Pironkov and others. His work spans easel paintings, monumental murals, decorative panels and mosaics.

He finished school in Plovdiv in 1952 and then studied monumental and decorative painting at the National Art Academy in Sofia, graduating in 1958. He joined the Union of Bulgarian Artists in 1961 and spent time in Italy that year. From 1970 he had many solo shows in Bulgaria and abroad, including Warsaw, Prague and Los Angeles. He also did stage design for operas and ballets. His works are in major Bulgarian galleries and public spaces, such as Sofia’s National History Museum, the National Palace of Culture, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as in Plovdiv’s Drama Theatre and Public Library.

A 20-meter mural in Plovdiv was destroyed during renovation, with an enlarged photo placed in its place. Leviev received several awards, including the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius First Class (1970), and prizes from the Union of Bulgarian Artists. His brother was jazz musician Milcho Leviev. After his death, there were many retrospectives and exhibitions, including a 2010 show The Return featuring works from 1982–1989.