Maria Lazarova Miteva, a multifaceted artist born on April 5, 1968, in Sofia, has woven a rich tapestry of creativity spanning several artistic domains. Her journey began at the College of Performing and Screen Arts in Plovdiv in 1987, where she delved into Theatrical Set and Costumes, Makeup, and Wigs. The seeds of her artistic prowess were sown, setting the stage for a remarkable career that encompasses icon painting, business administration, and a captivating array of exhibitions worldwide.
In 1991, Maria earned her master’s degree in icon painting, a testament to her dedication to the timeless craft. This marked the beginning of a prolific period where her art found its way into the hearts of audiences across the globe. Her collaboration with husband Ivan Mitev resulted in joint icon exhibitions in New York and Germany between 1992 and 1997. One notable showcase was held in the gallery of Hans Jürgen Ziegler in MÖSINGEN, Germany, underscoring the international appeal of Maria’s work.
Maria’s icons transcended borders, gracing exhibits in the church of St. James in London in 2007 and in Belgium in 2003 and 2004, thanks to the efforts of Altera Gallery. Her artistic language spoke volumes, resonating with audiences in diverse cultural landscapes.
Not confined to the gallery space, Maria extended her creative touch to the sacred, crafting altars for four chapels in Bulgaria. These sacred spaces bear witness to Maria’s ability to infuse divinity into her art. Her devotion to her craft is further evident in the numerous icons and paintings that now adorn private collections in Bulgaria, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Austria, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA.
A crowning achievement in Maria’s career is the altar for St. Timothy in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, painted in 2021. This masterpiece stands as a testament to her evolving artistic journey and her ability to breathe life into sacred spaces. The altar is a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary expression, a reflection of Maria’s adaptability and skill to navigate various artistic terrains.
In 2016, Maria embraced the digital realm by establishing her art shop on Etsy, aptly named MariaArtStore. This online space offers the public a window into Maria’s latest creations, featuring new icons, altars, and the paintings of her son, Lazar Mitev. It serves as a testament to Maria’s adaptability, showcasing her ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the art world.
In a unique twist, Maria’s artistry extends to her son, Lazar Mitev, who shares the spotlight in MariaArtStore. This mother-son collaboration adds a familial touch to the artistic skill, creating a dynamic platform that transcends generations. Explore Maria’s world at MariaArtStore and immerse yourself in the Spartan beauty of her creations.
