Eero Aarnio (b. July 21, 1932, Helsinki) is a legendary Finnish designer, a pioneer of plastic furniture and pop-art modernism. He studied at the Institute of Industrial Arts (now Aalto University) from 1954 to 1957 and founded his own studio in 1962.

Breaking away from Nordic wooden traditions, he embraced plastics and fiberglass, using bold colors and organic forms to define 1960s “Space Age” aesthetics. His iconic Ball Chair (1963)—a hollow fiberglass sphere on a stand—became a global symbol of futuristic design. It was followed by the Bubble Chair and Pastil Chair (both 1968), whimsical, sculptural pieces blending fun and function.

His works are in major collections including MoMA (New York), V&A (London), and Vitra Design Museum. Still in production, they remain influential, cementing his status as the master of playful, futuristic modern furniture.