The Legacy of Arto Saari: From Skateboarding Icon to Photography Visionary

Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding

Arto Saari was born on November 9, 1981, in Seinäjoki, Finland. Growing up in Finland, he discovered skateboarding in his early teens, inspired by the urban architecture around him. His first skateboard was a Vision Gator model, and with the support of his mother, he quickly immersed himself in the sport. His talent was undeniable, and by the age of 16, he had already made waves in the global skateboarding scene by winning silver at the skateboarding world championships in Munster, Germany.

Rise to Fame and Signature Style

Following his success in Germany, Arto was invited by Danny Way to tour Canada with Plan B, Platinum, and the Red Dragons teams. This opportunity propelled him into the professional skateboarding world, leading him to relocate to the United States and join Flip Skateboards. His technical precision, effortless style, and ability to execute massive handrails and stair sets made him a standout figure in the industry.

Arto was particularly known for his smooth execution of flip tricks, powerful grinds, and stylish transitions. His ability to combine technical mastery with raw power earned him the prestigious title of Thrasher’s Skater of the Year in 2001, making him one of only two Europeans to ever receive the award.

Sponsors and Pro Model Decks

Throughout his career, Arto was sponsored by some of the biggest names in skateboarding, including:

• Flip Skateboards

• Alien Workshop

• New Balance

• Ricta Wheels

• Mob Grip

• Destructo Trucks

• WeSC

His pro model decks were highly sought after, with Flip releasing several iconic designs featuring his name. Some of his most notable decks include the Flip Suicide King, Flip Moonbeam Classic, and Alien Workshop OG Pro Series.

Memorable Video Sections

Arto’s video parts are legendary, showcasing his fearless approach to skating and his ability to make even the most daunting obstacles look effortless. Some of his most memorable sections include:

• Flip’s "Sorry" (2002)

• Flip’s "Really Sorry" (2003)

• éS Footwear’s "Menikmati" (2000)

• Alien Workshop’s "Mind Field" (2009)

• New Balance Numeric’s "Tricolor" (2017)

Each of these videos cemented his status as one of the greatest skateboarders of his generation.

Life After Skateboarding

In a surprising turn of events, Arto retired from professional skateboarding and transitioned into a new passion—photography. His deep appreciation for skate culture and the raw energy of the streets led him to capture stunning images that resonate with both skateboarders and art enthusiasts alike. His work has been featured in exhibitions, magazines, and books, with his Concrete Currents exhibition gaining widespread acclaim.

Today, Arto resides in Hawaii, where he continues to explore photography, surf, and document the world around him. His ability to transition from one creative pursuit to another while maintaining his authenticity is a testament to his artistic vision and passion for life.

Arto Saari’s legacy in skateboarding remains untouchable, and his journey from a fearless skater to a visionary photographer is nothing short of inspiring. Whether through his legendary video parts or his breathtaking photography, Arto continues to leave an indelible mark on the world.

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