17 Years in the Making: The Story Behind Electric Zombie Tattoo Studio
- Lyndon Lapp
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
Some tattoo shops start as business ventures.
Electric Zombie Tattoo started as a calling.

For Lyndon Lapp, owner and sole artist behind Electric Zombie in Bellevue, Nebraska, the journey to opening his own studio wasn’t quick, easy, or expected. It was built over 17 years of doing the work, earning the respect, and never losing sight of what makes tattooing matter.
How It All Started
Lyndon didn’t grow up chasing a dream to become a tattoo artist. In fact, it wasn’t even on his radar. Back in Colorado Springs, he and his wife were regulars at a local shop, getting tattooed, hanging out, and supporting the crew in small, thoughtful ways. He’d sketch alongside the artists, clean up when needed, and show up with snacks or drinks... just trying to contribute without asking for anything in return.
Then one day, while his wife was in the chair, the conversation turned to apprenticeships. One of the artists asked, almost offhand, “Have you ever thought about tattooing?”... He hadn’t. But he left that appointment with an unexpected challenge; a list of art to draw and bring back. It was a test, unofficial but intentional.
He came back two days later with everything they asked for, fully expecting rejection. Instead, he got an honest critique, a real conversation, and by the end of the night, an offer for a formal apprenticeship.
“That moment changed my life.”
Putting in the Time
Lyndon’s apprenticeship was about learning to tattoo, or course, but it was also about learning how to show up. He spent four years at that shop, eventually growing into the role of Manager and helping to lead a truly successful team. Fast forward through six more years tattooing full-time in Colorado Springs, followed by a move to Oregon in 2018. Each chapter brought new clients, new challenges, and new growth.
By the time the pandemic hit and brought Lyndon to Nebraska, he felt like he was more than a tattoo artist, he was someone with a deep understanding of the craft and the community surrounding it. He’d traveled the country to learn from artists he respected, soaking up everything he could about tattooing and what it takes to build a shop from the ground up.
At one point, he was even in talks with a major tattoo company in Omaha. But in the end, their visions didn’t align. “It wouldn’t have made sense to create another version of an existing shop in the same city.” So he walked away, respectfully. Always respectfully.
Why Electric Zombie Exists
After years of working in other studios and even a short time tattooing out of a salon, Lyndon made a decision: he wasn’t going to settle. He wasn’t interested in just having a chair somewhere. He wanted to create something of his own. A unique vibe.
That mindset led to Electric Zombie Tattoo Studio.
Located in Bellevue, the shop is simple and focused. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone. It’s a place where the artist and the client truly collaborate. Where each tattoo gets the attention it deserves. Where you don’t feel rushed. You feel seen and heard.
“This shop has been years in the making, and I’m excited to finally share it with you.”
A Style Forged by Experience
Lyndon came up in a military town, where new faces and new requests cycled in every 6 to 12 months. That kind of environment didn’t allow for "comfort zones". It required adaptability, skill, and humility. He learned to handle every style because that’s what the job demanded. And those roots still influence how he works today.
He leans toward realism and neo-traditional styles, often working on large-scale pieces, but he has just as much appreciation for smaller tattoos and quick ideas. The goal, for him, is never just about the art, it’s about doing the right tattoo for the right person.
“I take pride in my ability to handle any style, and I love working with clients to bring their ideas to life, no matter the scale or subject matter.”

More Than a Name
The name Electric Zombie might sound loud to some. But the studio itself is grounded. It reflects Lyndon’s approach; real, raw, and never pretentious. It's fun, it's accessible, it's a unique space where all are welcome and love the vibe of traditional tattoo shops and a place to gather where everyone's a friend.
This is a one-artist studio run by someone who’s spent nearly two decades earning his place. Someone who didn’t take shortcuts. Someone who kept showing up, learning, listening, and building, one tattoo at a time.
If you're looking for a place that values honesty, craft, and connection - Electric Zombie is worth checking out.
Want to book with Lyndon? HERE
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