
Stefan Pokorny
Founder of Dwarven Forge
Seattle, Washington / GaryCon
Stefan Pokorny is an accomplished artist, game designer, and entrepreneur renowned in the tabletop gaming community. He is the founder and CEO of Dwarven Forge, a company specializing in high-quality, hand-sculpted terrain and miniature scenery for Dungeons & Dragons and other role-playing games. Since its inception in 1996, Dwarven Forge has revolutionized the way players experience tabletop gaming by enhancing immersion through detailed and modular terrain pieces.
Born in Austria and raised in the United States, Stefan’s passion for fantasy art and gaming began at a young age. He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he honed his skills in classical painting and sculpture. His artistic background deeply influences his work, blending traditional art techniques with the imaginative worlds of fantasy gaming.
Stefan is also an avid Dungeon Master, known for his elaborate and immersive game sessions that bring stories to life. His dedication to enriching the gaming experience extends beyond his products; he actively engages with the community through conventions, workshops, and live events.
In 2016, his journey and creative process were featured in the documentary “The Dwarvenaut,” directed by Josh Bishop. The film offers an intimate look at Stefan’s life, his artistic vision, and his mission to inspire imagination in others.
Through his innovative contributions and passionate advocacy for the arts within gaming, Stefan Pokorny has significantly impacted the fantasy gaming industry. His work continues to inspire both players and creators, elevating the standards of tabletop role-playing experiences worldwide.