Aalto: Architect of Emotions adopts an intimate approach to Alvar Aalto, a defining figure in Scandinavian design and one of the greatest modern architects. Featuring 8 mm home movies, photo albums, and letters between him and his first wife, Aino Aalto, the film acknowledges the vital contribution of Aino to Alvar’s career. The duo worked as a team and shared a conviction in putting people at the heart of their designs—from furniture to huge architectural projects.

Narrated by experts in the field, the film takes the audience on a tour of iconic buildings in seven countries, including Finland, Russia, and Italy. After decades of Aalto adulation, the film sheds useful light on the man—and woman—behind the organic curves.

Virpi Suutari (b. 1967, Rovaniemi, Finland) is a director and writer of acclaimed documentaries, including The Idle Ones (2001), Garden Lovers (2014), and Entrepreneur (2018). Many of her works have been broadcast on Arte, an European public service channel promoting cultural programming, and many have competed at festivals. She is a member of the European Film Academy.