Mark Holter, North Dakota Artist

Updated 07/19/2025

News: Updated 07/19/2025

Time is once again flying by! 2025 has been a bit of a whirlwind between working on some new pieces and revamping my "Phantasmagoria" show. Since I last updated this site I've spent a few months struggling with "artist block". For me, the block happens when I find myself moving away from what I love to do and focusing on what I think will sell in the gallery. Elements of the infamous Imposter Syndrome" start sneaking in and it messes me up. Luckily, I have some great friends who are fellow artists. I was able to talk with them about how I was feeling and they talked me off the metaphorical ledge. That's when I decided to say f*ck it, I'm going to do what I enjoy! It was very liberating and I've been working on new stuff ever since.
I also had the opportunity to visit Greece for a couple of weeks. That trip was a breath of fresh air, literally! Sometimes changing your perspective and your view out the window can be a game changer. I'm currently working on some new pieces to add to my Phantasmagoria show. I'd love to tour with that exhibit! I've also got ValleyCon in Fargo coming up in October. I will have some of the Phantasmagoria show on exhibit there at my booth. I've also found I kinda dig painting skateboard decks. As always, I'm experimenting and creating new things to show at Gallery 4 here in Fargo, so stay tuned!

Artist Statement & Bio

Artist’s Statement:

I enjoy communicating with people, but sometimes words can be restrictive. I feel that through my art I can communicate more honestly and completely. I like to experiment with different mediums and materials because it's how I evolve my work. I also like to be loud in both color and style because life is too short to be boring. I don't define myself as a one-medium artist. Whichever mediums and style I use on a given piece is my method of communication. Usually for me, working in an abstract style allows me to communicate more clearly. Maybe it's my way of making sense out of chaos.

Artist’s Bio:

I grew up in North Dakota and have always been involved with art in one medium or another. Up until a few years ago I've kept my visual art mostly private. I left North Dakota in 1989 for the US Navy. After 10 years of traveling the world, I found myself back in North Dakota. I received my Bachelor of General Studies degree from Minot State University in Minot, ND in 2016. During my last semester I decided to pursue art as more than just a hobby. I feel my art has become a way for me to express myself and to explore my relationships with my emotions, experiences, and the people in my life." Art has been my escape, therapy, creative outlet, and mode of evolution.

I have two incredible kids (now adults), Grace and Jaimie, who I am very proud of. I am currently living in Fargo, North Dakota with my amazing wife and muse, Krista.