Born in Breckenridge, Minnesota, Fritz Scholder became a seminal figure in 20th century American art, and is considered the leading artist of the New American Indian Art Movement. He grew up in Wahpeton, North Dakota and eventually moved to Pierre, South Dakota, where he studied art in high school under Oscar Howe. Scholder worked as an art teacher in Arizona before launching his career as a full-time artist, using his eye for color to paint the American Indian in a way they had never been depicted before. Scholder's unique expressionist style quickly gained both attention and controversy. Scholder was never fond of the Romantic and realist way Native American's had long been depicted by older artists. His post-modern twist blended humor, cliché, and an undeniable talent that sent his work worldwide. In 1970, Scholder was invited to collaborate by the Tamarind Institute in Albuquerque. This partnership resulted in the Indians Forever lithograph series, the success of which established his reputation amongst collectors and critics worldwide. Scholder was an influence on countless artists, and his style can be seen in many other successful artists in galleries around the world. His list of accolades, major exhibitions, and collected works is immense. Fritz Scholder is recognized as one of America's great artists.