Iris Barry
American art historian and film preservationist

Iris Barry

Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Who is Iris Barry?
Iris Barry was a British film critic and historian. She was one of the first curators of film and played a significant role in establishing film as a legitimate art form.
What was Iris Barry's contribution to the film industry?
Iris Barry played a crucial role in the recognition and preservation of films as an art form. She co-founded the first film society in London and later became the first curator of the film department at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Her efforts helped elevate the status of film as a serious artistic medium.
What was Iris Barry's role at the Museum of Modern Art?
Iris Barry was the first curator of the film department at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City. She was responsible for acquiring and organizing films for the museum's collection, as well as curating film exhibitions. She also played a key role in developing film preservation techniques.
What made Iris Barry influential in film criticism?
Iris Barry was a respected film critic who wrote for various publications and authored several books on film history. She was known for her insightful analysis and appreciation of cinema as an art form. Her writings helped shape the field of film criticism and contributed to the recognition of film as a serious artistic medium.
What is Iris Barry's legacy?
Iris Barry's contributions to the film industry left a lasting legacy. She helped establish the legitimacy of film as an art form and paved the way for future film historians and curators. Her work at the Museum of Modern Art played a significant role in the preservation and promotion of films. Today, her influence can still be seen in the way films are curated and discussed in academic and cultural institutions.