Tabitha and Shorty from Colourfully Dark Tattoo Design are not just talented tattoo artists they are spreading joy, colour, and compassion while raising funds for Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation. The duo looks forward to turning their studio into a place where art meets heart and community. The artists are offering ribbon tattoos for one hundred dollars each with all proceeds going directly to Candlelighters.
Tattooing for a cause
Shorty explained how their work combines artistry and healing.
"There have been many occasions where we have people in the studio and you can just see that they are healing their traumas, they are healing their faults, they are breaking chains, if you will. And it is just so good to see that by what we do with our art helps people with themselves."
Tabitha added, "Sometimes just having that thing with you can help you hold on to something else."
Each tattoo can be customized with colour reflecting personal significance and the vibrant creativity that Tabitha is known for while Shorty specializes in black and grey tattoos with bold, striking detail and shading.
What is Candlelighters?
Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation supports families affected by childhood cancer across Manitoba. The organization provides emotional, educational, and practical assistance so that no family faces the journey alone. Services include parent consultants, family events, financial support, Camp CLIFF for children and families, and moments of joy during challenging times.
Through Colourfully Dark, Candlelighters gains not only financial support but a creative way to raise awareness and celebrate resilience.
From passion to purpose
Shorty shared how tattooing became a path to expression and healing. "I started when I was sixteen. I came from a broken home so that was my way of expressing myself through my art. By the time I graduated high school at eighteen I was already professionally tattooing."
Tabitha brings the colourful side to the duo. "I am the colour. She is the dark. We feed off each other. Anything colourful from watercolours to Disney tattoos, that is my specialty."
Together, they offer a wide range of artistry from bold portraits to delicate flowers and pop culture designs showing that every tattoo can carry meaning and impact.
Community, creativity, and fun
The fundraiser on September 20th will include walk-in tattoo appointments, snacks from the Lovewell Women’s Drop-in Center, and a spin to win prize wheel with discounts and giveaways. A Christian motorcycle club will also attend to show support.
Tabitha and Shorty’s initiative highlights how creativity can meet compassion and how art can be a force for good. By using their talents to support Candlelighters, they are giving families a reason to smile, remember, and heal one tattoo at a time.