IRIS

The Iris Collection was established in 1994 as a unique archive and database containing information on the work of contemporary female photographers. Dedicated to promoting the work of women artists using photographic-based media it currently holds information on over 300 international artists and a slide collection containing over six thousand images. In 2007 Iris was resituated within the then Loughborough School of Art & Design.

In 2010, it is being reconfigured within the School of the Arts as a project that encompasses a range of interdisciplinary research projects in addition to its function as a physical resource.

Our Aims are to;

To provide a global forum for the theoretical engagement with histories and contemporary developments in photographic practices

To create and promote projects that encourage debate around social and cultural concerns with a particular emphasis on issues of gender and identity

To ensure the legacy of women’s contribution to photographic practice and theory by providing an open resource in support of on-going research initiatives and the education of new audiences

To promote the work of contemporary photographers, curators and writers on photography through exhibitions, networks, publications and projects.