Lee Miller Birthday: Surrealist Photographer And Man Ray Muse Would Be 106 (PHOTOS)

Today marks the birthday of surrealist photographer and Man Ray muse, Lee Miller. Lady Penrose would turn 106 years old if she were still alive.

Born In Poughkeepsie, New York at the turn of the century, Miller began her life in the limelight as a model after a chance run-in with Vogue founder, Conde Nast. After a short stint in the world of fashion, she moved to Paris, seeking the company and mentorship of acclaimed artist, Man Ray. The two became partners and lovers, embarking on wild photographic adventures in the early 1930s, together discovering the wonders of solarisation.

Miller eventually left Man Ray and went on to marry twice, working as an official war photographer during WWII and developing a knack for gourmet cooking. Farely Farm, her East Sussex home during the 1950s and 1960s, became a gathering place for intellectual giants of the time, welcoming artist and thinkers like Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore and Dorothea Tanning past its gates. In 1977, Miller died at the famous location at 70 years old.

In honor of her birthday, the Lee Miller Archive is opening its incredible treasure trove of photographs to an online audience, featuring fashion photos, war snapshots and surrealist works of fine art . To further celebrate the great female artist, let us know how you are toasting Ms. Miller in the comments.