[1] After his studies he became manager of the art collection at Carson Pirie Scott; it was at this time that he befriended Hovsep Pushman and other artists.
Clark had secured space in Grand Central Terminal, and his goal was to create "the largest sales gallery of art in the world.
The Grand Central Art Galleries were managed by Barrie for more than 50 years; he guided them through the Depression and World War II as well as enabling many of their triumphs.
Artists represented by Grand Central Moderns included Byron Browne, Lamar Dodd, Jennett Lam, and Louise Nevelson.
The only illumination allowed on his paintings were specially designed reflector lights attached to the rear of his carefully selected antique frames.
"[8] When Henry Tanner was unable to provide a canvas for the Galleries' 1930 members' show, Barrie chose one of the artist's paintings from the stockroom and entered it in his name.