Aino + Alvar Aalto: A Life Together

Aino and Alvar Aalto, who founded Artek and created some of the most celebrated objects and buildings of the twentieth century, are the subjects of a new book by their grandson. It explores their life together, in Finland and abroad, through letters, documents, drawings, and family photographs, and is the first monograph to examine and celebrate their life and work as a shared endeavour.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Phaidon Press Ltd

Aino and Alvar Aalto, the visionary duo behind Artek, left an indelible mark on the world of design with their iconic creations. This captivating visual biography delves into the lives of these extraordinary individuals, shedding light on their remarkable journey together. Through a rich tapestry of letters, documents, drawings, and family photographs, Alvar and Aino's grandson, Juhani Aalto, unveils the untold stories of their life, both in Finland and abroad. Drawing from a vast array of never-before-published letters, Juhani paints a vivid portrait of their enduring love, creative partnership, and the profound impact they had on the world of design.

The first monograph dedicated to examining and celebrating the life and work of Aino and Alvar as a collaborative endeavor, this personal and intimate exploration delves into the unconventional lives of one of the most influential design couples of the 20th century. Juhani, with the help of the family's largely unpublished archive, including personal letters, snapshots, and sketches, has crafted a narrative that is both warm and accessible, allowing readers to delve deeper into the lives and legacy of these remarkable individuals.

Aino and Alvar Aalto's journey began in the picturesque town of Jyväskylä, Finland, where they met and fell in love. Their shared passion for art and design drove them to pursue their dreams, and they soon established their own design studio, Artek. From humble beginnings, Artek grew into a global brand, renowned for its timeless and elegant furniture and architectural designs.

Aino and Alvar's creations were characterized by their minimalist aesthetic, clean lines, and functional design. They believed in the power of simplicity to create beauty and functionality, and their designs have stood the test of time. Some of their most iconic objects include the Aalto Chair, the Paimio Chair, and the Nesting Table, which have become synonymous with modernist design.

In addition to their design work, Aino and Alvar were also committed to social and environmental causes. They believed in the importance of sustainable design and advocated for the use of natural materials and eco-friendly practices. Their commitment to social responsibility extended beyond their work, as they actively supported various humanitarian and cultural organizations.

Alvar and Aino's life together was filled with adventure and creativity. They traveled extensively, visiting different countries and cultures, and their experiences influenced their designs. They were also deeply committed to their family, and their love for each other was evident in everything they did.

Aino's passing in 1949 marked a significant loss for the world of design, but her legacy continues to inspire and influence designers worldwide. Alvar, too, continued to create and innovate, leaving a lasting impact on the field of design.

In conclusion, Aino and Alvar Aalto's visual biography is a testament to their extraordinary lives and enduring legacy. Through Juhani's meticulous research and storytelling, readers are given a glimpse into the lives of these visionary designers, their creative partnership, and the profound impact they had on the world of design. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of modernism, architecture, and the power of design to shape our lives.

Weight: 2042g
Dimension: 312 x 250 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838666071