Lee Miller: A Surrealist Photographer and War Correspondent

Early Life and Education

Elizabeth "Lee" Miller was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 1907. Her father, Theodore Miller, was a wealthy industrialist and amateur photographer. Lee's childhood was spent in a privileged environment, where she developed an interest in photography at a young age. After graduating from high school in 1924, Lee moved to New York City to study painting at the Art Students League.

Surrealism and Man Ray

In New York, Lee met the prominent Surrealist artist Man Ray. She became his muse and lover, and they collaborated on a number of experimental photographs. Lee's work from this period is characterized by its surrealist elements, such as distorted perspectives and dreamlike imagery. In 1930, Lee and Man Ray traveled to Paris, where they became part of the Surrealist movement. Lee's photographs were included in the movement's first major exhibition, the Exposition Internationale du Surréalisme.

Fashion Photography

In the 1930s, Lee transitioned from Surrealism to fashion photography. She worked for several magazines, including Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, and became known for her innovative and glamorous images. Lee's fashion photographs often featured surrealist elements, such as unusual angles and unexpected juxtapositions.

World War II and Photojournalism

During World War II, Lee became a war correspondent for Vogue. She covered the American invasion of Normandy, the liberation of Paris, and the concentration camps. Lee's photographs from this period are some of the most iconic images of the war, and they played an important role in documenting the brutality and devastation of conflict.

Post-War Career

After the war, Lee returned to photography and continued to work as a freelance photographer. She also became increasingly involved in environmental and conservation issues. In the 1960s, Lee co-founded the photographic cooperative Magnum Photos.

Legacy

Lee Miller died in 1977, leaving behind a vast body of work that spans several decades and artistic styles. She is considered one of the most important photographers of the 20th century, and her work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. Lee Miller's legacy includes her contributions to Surrealism, fashion photography, and war photojournalism.