Primarily a landscape painter Jonas Lie was born in Oslo, Norway and emigrated to the United States in 1893 where he studied in New York at the Art Students League and the National Academy of Design. His studio was located in New York at 40 West 59th Street.

As well as his landscapes, Lie produced a large number of quality marine paintings. He was quite prolific and enjoyed a considerable international reputation winning numerous awards and medals throughout his successful career.

In his later years lie was a member of many fine art organizations including the prestigious Salmagundi Club, the Federation of American Arts, and was active in and became President of the National Academy of Design.