Mekas also co-founded New York City’s esteemed Anthology Film Archives in 1970.

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Jonas Mekas, the avant-garde film icon who is widely considered one of the most important figures in experimental film history, has died at 96. Mekas’ passing was confirmed on social media by the Anthology Film Archives. The director co-founded the New York City center for film preservation and exhibition in 1970.
“Dear friends. Jonas passed away quietly and peacefully early this morning,” Anthology Film Archives wrote on Instagram. “He was at home with family. He will be greatly missed but his light shines on.”