The Blank Canvas
4 mins | UK | 2025
Graduation Film
Direction & Animation: Ruge Li
Music & Sound: Jack Hinks
I won the KeepCup x ECA (Edinburgh College of Art) Design Competition.
I turned the cup into a zoetrope.
Spin to bring the animation to life.
Keep it. Loop it. Reuse it.
Read more here.
I won the KeepCup x ECA (Edinburgh College of Art) Design Competition.
I turned the cup into a zoetrope.
Spin to bring the animation to life.
Keep it. Loop it. Reuse it.
Read more here.
A hybrid live-action and animated short about the paralysis of beginning.
Unlike Isaac Newton, who grabs the apple that hits him, the protagonist indulges herself in a pile of ideas, refusing to start until she finds the perfect one - when all she really needs is a rough start.
Director's Statement
The reason I want to make this film is that, for me, not just creating art, but most major tasks or challenges I face in life, the process of going from 0 to 1 is the most difficult part.
I’m a perfectionist. I overthink. And I’ve suffered so much because of it.
The Blank Canvas is both a reflection of my creative journey and a testament to what a rough start can bring. I hope it resonates with - and consoles - anyone struggling with the same feeling.
Production
Official Selection
Nightpiece Film Festival 2025 (Edinburgh Festival Fringe)
No Reason Short Film Festival 2025
Animation Marathon 2025
FIDEC 2025 (International Film School Festival of Tetouan)
Animafantasia 2025 (International Student Animation Film Festival)
Lift-Off Sessions 2025 (First-Time Filmmaker Sessions Volume 12)
Los Angeles Animation Festival 2025 (Honourable Mention)
