Lea, Tom, 1907-2001

Person

Biography

Tom Lea was an American painter, illustrator, and writer who became widely known for his vivid visual documentation of World War II. During the war, he served as a combat artist and correspondent for Life magazine, traveling with U.S. forces in both the European and Pacific theaters. Unlike many illustrators working from photographs or secondhand accounts, Lea often sketched directly in the field, capturing soldiers, civilians, and battle conditions with striking immediacy and emotional depth. His work is especially noted for its realism and humanity, portraying not only the intensity of combat but also the exhaustion and resilience of those involved.

Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:

Drawing, This Is Sad Sack Calling Charlie Blue

Item — AC.050

Identifier: 2026.003.009

Scope and Contents From the Collection: The John Nau III Collection consists of nine framed American propaganda posters and original and reproduction World War II-related artworks. The collection includes six original or reproduction World War II-era propaganda and war bond posters dating from circa 1942–1945, featuring themes of sacrifice, national unity, military service, and civilian support for the war effort. Titles include Buy War Bonds, A Strange Sort of Prayer, A Careless Word… Another Cross, 7th War Loan Now All Together,...

Dates: 1942; undated

Found in: Center for Pacific War Studies / National Museum of the Pacific War / John Nau III Collection

John Nau III Collection

Collection

Identifier: 000073

Abstract

The John Nau III Collection consists of nine framed American propaganda posters and original and reproduction World War II-related artworks.