Lee Miller Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Lee Miller was a remarkable American photographer who left an indelible mark on the art world in the 20th century. Born in 1907 in Poughkeepsie, New York, she began her career as a fashion model before transitioning to photography. Miller studied under the legendary surrealist artist Man Ray in Paris, becoming his muse and collaborator.

As a photographer, Miller’s work spanned multiple genres, from surrealism and fashion to hard-hitting photojournalism. During World War II, she served as a war correspondent for Vogue, capturing powerful images of the London Blitz, the liberation of Paris, and the horrific scenes at the Dachau and Buchenwald concentration camps.

After the war, Miller settled in London with her husband, surrealist artist Sir Roland Penrose. The couple lived at 21 Downshire Hill in the Borough of Camden, a vibrant area known for its artistic and literary residents. Their home became a hub for the surrealist movement, hosting gatherings attended by notable figures such as Pablo Picasso and Max Ernst.

Miller’s post-war work continued to push boundaries, exploring themes of feminism and the human condition. Despite her significant contributions to photography and art, Miller’s work was largely overlooked until after her death in 1977. In recent years, her legacy has been celebrated through exhibitions and publications, cementing her status as a pioneering artist who fearlessly documented some of the most pivotal moments of the 20th century.