Exhibition: Marie-José Van Hee – For Sun and Wind to Paint on

The main role in the exhibition is played by Belgian architect Marie-José Van Hee (b. 1950) and her work. Van Hee makes skilful use of materials, light, and proportions to create harmonious spaces where the boundary between interior and exterior becomes blurred. The exhibition’s title, For Sun and Wind to Paint on, reflects Van Hee’s meticulous attention to how light interacts with different surfaces and materials.

I like good rooms; that’s what interests me through all the ages. Houses with good rooms, good-dimensioned rooms with good light coming in, and doors. What else do you need?  – Marie-José Van Hee 

Van Hee’s output spans a wide range of projects, from private houses to public spaces and cultural buildings. Her works beautifully emphasise respect for architecture, nature and handicraft, as well as an understanding of traditional and folk building methods.

Winner of several awards, Marie-José Van Hee is a revered designer. She was given the Alvar Aalto Medal in 2024, and is the first individual woman architect to receive it.

The exhibition is produced by Architecture & Design Museum Helsinki, where it is being shown in spring and summer 2025. The exhibition is curated by Jutta Tynkkynen, Marie-José Van Hee and Sam De Vocht.