Mark Stephen Meadows (born September 28, 1968), known by his artist name, pighed, is an American author, entrepreneur and artist. He is the author of over five books and inventor of patents relating to artificial intelligence, blockchain and avatars. He lectures internationally on this work as well as the intersection of art, technology and culture. In addition to inventing software, writing books and developing artwork, Meadows is also known for his worldly adventures, specifically for hitchhiking to Baghdad in 2003, interviewing terrorists and sailing voyages. He holds a USCG captain's license and has lived aboard his sailboat since 2006.