Stephen Hecker is a multi-award-winning author and multidisciplinary artist whose creative
career spans over two decades. As the creator of the Zebulon series—an epic, high fantasy saga
that fuses mythology, original world-building, and deeply immersive storytelling—Stephen has
established a reputation for vivid imagination, layered characters, and unique narrative depth.
The Zebulon universe features custom-designed languages, maps, races, and a guild system, all
rooted in a reality-spanning mythology inspired by folklore, religion, and a recurring dream that
has shaped much of their creative vision.
In addition to writing, Stephen is an accomplished graphic designer, concept artist, painter, and
tattoo artist. His artistic versatility has led to collaborations across various industries, from comic
books and tabletop RPGs to teaching art and branding workshops at conventions. As a multi-
award-winning tattoo artist, he is known for his vibrant, detailed work across a wide range of
styles, including anime, color realism, watercolor, trash polka, and cover-ups. His artistic career
began in 2003 and has since expanded into co-owning High Tyde Ink & Imaging, a company
specializing in graphic design, game development, branding, printing and publishing.
Over the years, Stephen has received numerous awards for both tattoo artistry and literary work,
earning accolades at conventions and festivals for their innovation, craftsmanship, and
storytelling. His contributions include two published comic books, multiple novels and short
stories, and the ongoing development of a Zebulon-based tabletop RPG and immersive
audiobook series.
Beyond the studio and the page, Stephen is also a dedicated educator, having taught workshops
for aspiring artists, including special needs adults through the Achievability Program at Captain
Tattoo Art Studio as well as his current instructing profession with IncludEDucation and Virtual
Wresting Connection (VWC). His ability to inspire, instruct, and create across multiple mediums
has made him a respected figure in both the artistic and literary communities.
Balancing the roles of business owner, full-time artist, educator, and family man being a father to
seven, Stephen continues to push creative boundaries while mentoring the next generation of
storytellers and visual artists. His work invites audiences into worlds both imagined and deeply
human—worlds built not only from ink and paint, but from passion, persistence, and a lifelong
commitment to craft. He can be found across all major social media platforms by
@Whatthehecker88