This exhibition explores one of the most intense and productive chapters in the professional life of American photographer Lee Miller. Between 1932 and 1945 Miller was simultaneously a renowned portrait photographer running her own studio in New York (1932—1934), a photographer for perfume and cosmetic brands in advertising (1932—1945), and a fashion photographer and war correspondent for the British edition of Vogue (1939—1945). This short time span encompasses a rich history in which the photographer moved between and linked her various practices. Miller’s diverse professional activities, and the ease with which she stepped from one context to another, reveal a photographer whose work was defined primarily by its exchange and commercial value. Lee Miller, A Photographer at Work reveals the inner dynamics of managing a photography career amid the myriad challenges facing professional women at the time. The exhibition offers a rich and complex portrait of this important figure, previously known best for her collaboration with American artist Man Ray and her close ties to the Surrealist movement of the 1920s.

About Lee Miller
Lee Miller (1907 – 1977) entered the photography world in New York as a model to the great photographers of the day such as STEICHEN, HOYNINGEN-HUENE and GENTHE. In 1929 she went to Paris and worked with Man RAY quickly succeeding in establishing her own studio. Returning to New York in 1932, she set up her own studio for 2 years that was highly successful. In 1937 she met Roland PENROSE and in December 1942 she became a correspondent accredited to the US Army. She followed the US troops overseas and was probably the only woman combat photo-journalist to cover the front line war in Europe.  Among her many exploits she witnessed the siege of St Malo, Liberation of Paris,  fighting in Alsace and the liberation of Buchenwald and Dachau but it is mainly for the witty Surrealist images which permeate all her work that she is best remembered.

Curated by Gaelle Morel

Organized in collaboration with the Lee Miller Archives, England.

Originally produced and presented during Les Rencontres d’Arles, France, 2022.

Generously supported by
The Andrew Gruft Fund for Photography Exhibitions
George Seslija and Dr. Marla Kiess
Andrew and Yasmeen Strang

Banner Image: Lee Miller, Hats, Pidoux with original markings, Vogue Studio, London, England 1939. © Lee Miller Archives, England 2025. All rights reserved.