Sometimes writing an intro is easy, why you might ask? If the person is open, honest, and you find throughout the interview that however different you both may be, you get where the other is coming from. “Rapport” is a word used both in French and English to signal the establishment of a “connection” between parties, I can honestly say that through meeting Marvin Sauer he is a person who can build connections. I hope that this skill, combined with his level-headedness will take him where he wants to go. His first stop is this part, and the next stops are unknown. Enjoy the ride!

Video by Moritz Mauch aka Wellenwasser.

Text & Interview by Roland Hoogwater.

Photo by Daniel Wagner.

Hey Marvin what’s up?

I’m at the shop (Arrow & Beast), just chilling. I’ve been really busy, and I have overworked myself doing carpentry during the last two weeks. I told myself I needed a break—a week off. How are you doing?

I’m good, busy but no complaints. So, let’s start this interview, give me the basics.

I’m 23 years old and in my last year of training as a carpenter. Before this, I lived in Barcelona for almost two years, which was a dream of mine after finishing school. Living there was an incredible time for me. I moved back to Germany to support my mom, who became ill. I moved close to my dad, to Stuttgart, whereas my mom lives in Berlin. So, I have been traveling in Germany as well.

It surely sounds like it! What does living in Barcelona, in your life mean to you now?

It means a lot, especially because my nickname “niño” comes from that time. It was given to me in Barcelona because I was the youngest in the group. A friend from Brazil, Hugo, gave me that nickname. It reminds me of the friendships and the different stages I’ve experienced over the last few years.

How do Berlin and Barcelona figure into your journey?

Berlin and Barca feel like second homes. I have a lot of friends there, and they’ve shaped my experiences. Barcelona, though, was life-changing. It helped me mature and gave me a new perspective on skating. Watching how Brazilians approach skating, living in the moment despite challenges, was inspiring. It’s a mindset I deeply admire.

Why did you decide to return to Germany and pursue this training? Have you always been a handyman?

I’ve always loved working with my hands. It’s rewarding to see the results of your work every day. It ties back to skating, too—I wanted a career that gave me independence. I didn’t want to rely on sponsors or external pressures. Carpentry allows me to make my own decisions and do something I enjoy.

“Skating can lose its essence when sponsorships get involved. The pressure—self-criticism, meeting expectations—can take away the love for skating.”

What do you mean by external pressures?

Skating can lose its essence when sponsorships get involved. The pressure—self-criticism, meeting expectations—can take away the love for skating. I’ve seen this happen to others, and it’s sad because skating is a passion, something that saved me in many ways. I want to preserve that love and stay true to myself.

Let’s talk about your part, what was your highlight clip from the recent video?

The fakie hardflip stands out, but my favorite is the long line that transitions from a Spanish song to a trap beat. It ends with a fakie varial heelflip on the steps at the gallery. It was a battle to get it right, but it’s one of my favorites.

What kind of reactions did you get after the premiere?

The premiere was amazing. A lot of people who have known me since the beginning were there, including my mom. She joined the live feed, which made me emotional. It was important to me to share this moment with family and friends who have supported me.

So, with all that said, what does the future hold for you after this drops?

I am working on a video that will include the likes of Niels Bennett, amongst others. I want to finish my carpentry education and then use that skill to travel, work, & skate internationally. Barcelona is on the table for sure but I also want to go to Brazil to visit all the friends I made back in my BCN days. I want to see how they live!

That sounds sick! Marvin, I want to thank you for your openness & honesty during this interview.

Thank you, Roland, I am grateful for the opportunity, to show my part on the Place channels and also for the opportunity to put some words to this project.

I know family and chosen family mean a lot to you, any shoutouts?

Yeah, that means everything to me, it’s very important to me. It’s difficult to name everybody because there are so many. But let’s give it a go, I definitely want to give shoutouts to Moritz… Moritz Mauch sometimes has his quirks but he was always there and he motivated me. All the Arrow boys, Oli Merkelbach from Kai Boblenz, Gili, to Lily, to Phil, to Niels Bennet they all motivated me a lot. Thank you!