Ivan Dmitri
American photographer (1900–1968)
Ivan Dmitri (or Dmitre; February 3, 1900 – April 25, 1968), born Levon Fairchild West (Assadoorian), was an American etcher and photographic artist. His work was part of the painting event in the art competition at the 1932 Summer Olympics.
Early years
West was born in Centerville, South Dakota, to Avedis Madros West and Henrietta West. His father was a Congregational minister, who immigrated from Armenia. The family changed its name to "West" when Levon and his brothers did not want to enlist in the service during World War I under their Armenian last name, Assadoorian. The name West was chosen as it was the maiden name of Levon's mother. Levon West adopted the pen name of "Ivan Dmitri" to use for his color photography work. His etchings and watercolors were always done under his original name, Levon West.
Levon West moved often as a boy, as his father preached in a series of North Dakota towns. His father was pastor at the Congregational Church in Glen Ullin, from 1914 to 1918, when the family moved to Harvey.
“Ivan Dmitri” enters the record as american photographer (1900–1968). Crown Archives preserves that source wording while asking what Ivan, Dmitri and American can confirm, complicate or overturn.
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