As an iconic figure in 20^th century modernist architecture, Alvar Aalto infused the warmth and psyche of daily life into modern architecture via his innovative design that blended functionality with a humanistic spirit. Extended from the scale of “home” to public buildings and urban spaces, his creations featured the fusion of nature, light, and materials in symbiotic harmony with the environment. His works can be seen across Europe and the United States, having a profound and enduring impact on contemporary architectural concepts and design praxis.

Living in the 1920s when Finland just declared independence, and meanwhile bearing a baptism of modernism and globalization, Aalto treated his native culture as the point of departure and used architecture as a language to communicate with the times. Whilst responding to modernization, Aalto’s works embodied the importance that Finnish society attaches to the symbiotic relationship with nature, the spirit of democracy, and the quality of life, and further opened a dialogue between his own culture and the international community.

Focusing on the dialogue between architecture and cities, the Jut Art Museum has endeavored to organize architecture exhibitions, including cross-disciplinary exhibitions of architecture and art, research exhibitions on architectural thoughts and movements, and solo shows of international architects. The exhibition Creating for the Everyday – Aino, Elissa and Alvar Aalto is a collaboration between the Jut Art Museum and the Alvar Aalto Foundation. Starting from Alvar Aalto’s life history and featuring a fine selection of important manuscripts, models, and furniture from the Foundation’s collection, this exhibition is the first of its kind in Taiwan to systematically introduce Aalto’s partnerships with his two architect wives, Aino and Elissa Aalto, in architecture, design, and daily life during different periods, with the aim of exploring the connection between architecture and people’s quotidian existence from the perspectives of their “home” and “co-creation.”

The Aaltos’ thoughtful consideration of people’s lives always found expression in their works. It’s the reason why their works are so touching. In their close collaborations, “home” was a space for living and working, as well as the fountainhead of inspiration and creativity that embodied the philosophy of “creating as a way of life.”

In the 21^st century when our environment and lifestyle are undergoing a sea change, we seek to revisit the 50-year journey of co-creation among the Aaltos, appreciate Nordic culture’s emphasis on nature, light, and living spaces, and stimulate visitors’ reflections on creativity, cooperation, and symbiosis with nature, thereby raising new possibilities for cities and future living.

The Aalto House (1935-36) living room, Helsinki. Photo Maija Holma © Alvar Aalto Foundation.