Arto Saari

Arto Saari isn’t just a name in skateboarding - he’s a movement. A pioneer, artist, and cultural icon, Arto embodies everything that makes skateboarding more than a sport: freedom, creativity, and raw expression.

Born on February 24, 1981, in Finland, Arto’s journey started on the cold concrete of his hometown streets. From the moment he stepped on a board, it was clear - this kid wasn’t just skating; he was rewriting the rules. His fearless style and technical mastery quickly caught global attention, catapulting him into the spotlight in the late ‘90s, where his groundbreaking video parts with Flip Skateboards redefined what was possible on four wheels. Every trick dripped with originality, grit, and that unmistakable Arto attitude. This led to him being named Skater of the Year by Thrasher Magazine in 2001.

But Arto’s artistry didn’t stop at the skatepark. After dominating the scene for years, he turned his creative lens toward photography and filmmaking, capturing the soul of skateboarding through breathtaking visuals and candid moments. His photos tell stories of friendship, rebellion, and the beautiful chaos that fuels skate culture - raw, real, and utterly human.

Now based on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaii, Arto continues to shape the culture he helped build, leading projects, exhibitions, and workshops that blend skateboarding with art. His life’s work stands as proof that skating isn’t just about tricks - it’s about vision, authenticity, and the courage to create without limits.

Arto Saari remains a living legend - a trailblazer who turned movement into art and continues to inspire skaters and artists around the world to push boundaries and ride their own path.