Mark Holter, North Dakota Artist

Updated 05/05/2026

News: Updated 05/05/2026

Spring is in full swing and the North Dakota winter has given way to green! It's been a busy past few months between putting the final touches on my Phantasmagoria exhibit, finishing my GhostCurrent series, and working on some additional new art. Going into the summer I have a couple of different projects I've been doing the initial research/work on. I will be spending three weeks in June camping in the Pacific Northwest. These trips are always inspirational to me and my work. I am planning a fun, tongue-in-cheek series celebrating the mysteries of cryptozoology! I will be spending one night just a stones throw from the infamous Skinwalker Ranch, so stay tuned for news on that. I will also be working on a new wild west themed, small series of new mixed media pieces so be on the lookout for those around August. My upcoming tour of the Phantasmagoria exhibit will be at the Ellendale Opera House in June of 2026, the Lake Region Arts Center in August, and at Bismarck State College from Oct 5th to Nov 13th, 2026. It will then travel to Williston, ND in February 2027 to visit the James Memorial Art Center!

Artist Statement & Bio

Artist’s Bio:

Mark grew up in North Dakota and joined the US Navy in 1989. He found his way back to North Dakota after 10 years and eventually ended up in Fargo. Mark has created art in one form or another

most of his life. Growing up as a fan of EC Comics, sci-fi, and horror movies, Mark started with drawing cartoons and comics. He enjoys storytelling and was involved with community theater for many years while in the Navy and while living in Williston and Minot. Before joining the Navy, Mark’s dream was to become a practical special effects artist. While he ended up going a different route, he still gets to create “weird stuff” in his art studio. Art is a way for Mark to express himself and to explore his creative side in a “mad scientist” sort of way. Atomic Luchador is the name Mark gave his art studio. He came up with the name from his days as a pro wrestling promoter and wrestler (2008-2014), believing art, like pro wrestling, should be colorful and dramatic.

Artist’s Statement:

“I enjoy challenging people and exploring perception. Whichever medium and style I work in on a given piece is my method of communication. If asked to define myself as an artist, I'd say I'm a communicator, translator, explorer, student, and guide. I want you to see me, and the most honest way is through my art. I enjoy experimenting with different mediums and materials. I like creating artifacts and the mythology around those artifacts. I want to create more than an image, I want to create a story. I want to capture imagination and engage the viewer.