Logline - A struggling writer gains a newfound perspective on life and art through his budding romance with an energetic woman.

Synopsis - Blank Canvas follows James, an aspiring but struggling young horror author. While struggling with a persistent case of writer’s block and a feud with his professor over his work, James’ life collides with that of Ava, an art-loving and energetic student. Through their shared experiences, James learns things about artistic interpretation, self-expression, and love that the pages of a novel could never teach him. Blank Canvas explores how life imitates art, and how each piece of art is uniquely profound and beautiful in the eyes of each and every viewer.

“Blank Canvas is a project that I have fallen deeply in love with in the six months it has been in development insofar. It is a deeply personal culmination of all the art that inspires me; it pays respect to the countless pages of novels I’ve spent summer days perusing, the individual brush strokes that make up a masterful painting, and the metallic curves of a majestic sculpture. It is my way of giving back to the countless artists who have given to me throughout my life.

Working on the pre-production of a film of this scale has been incredibly exciting and has only deepened the passion for filmmaking that budded in me as a child. Even this early on, seeing the talent and dedication that my crew has put in is incredibly inspiring, and I can’t wait to show all of you the fruits of our labor.

Writing Blank Canvas has done so much for me; it has deepened my own appreciation for art, it has allowed me to flourish as a writer, and it has allowed me to put emotions, thoughts, and past experiences floating around in my head onto paper. No matter the experiences and adventures that life has put you through, I hope that Blank Canvas invokes some of the same feelings in you that it did for me.

I look forward to presenting you all with a final product.”

- Christopher P. Tamer

Director, Writer

Christopher Tamer is a director and writer, as well as a 1st year RTF student at the University of Texas at Austin. Ever since Christopher saw La La Land when he was 14, his mind has been set on filmmaking. As a highschooler, Christopher participated and was recognized in several local film festivals, worked in sports broadcasting, and did some freelance videography. Blank Canvas is Christopher’s first project as a college student.

Producer

Stephen Nguyen is a freshman Radio-Television-Film student currently honing his craft in screenwriting and directing. While he is new to filmmaking, Stephen has always wanted to be a storyteller through any medium imaginable. He often creates stories that act as character studies in the context of relationships, whether it’s in friendships, romance, or family. This is his first time producing a film, and he is ecstatic to help bring the director’s vision to life with the utmost commitment to making production a safe environment.

Director of Photography

Austin Nomura Keith is a Japanese-American director, writer, and cinematographer. Born and raised in Texas, his dual heritage profoundly shapes his filmmaking style and philosophy, blending the cinematic traditions of both America and Japan. Drawing inspiration from the rich histories of both nations’ cinemas, he pioneers a philosophy centered on natural light, evocative imagery, and stunning movement—all aimed at provoking deep emotional responses from his audience.

Currently, Austin is a freshman RTF student at the University of Texas at Austin, where he continues to refine his craft and develop his unique cinematic voice.

For our budget, the most essential needs we’re aiming to fund are transporting our crew, paying for any equipment our team doesn’t already have, and, most importantly, feeding our cast and crew. Shooting is right around the corner, and we are already looking for other sources, including grants, to help minimize the costs. Thus, the following budget breakdown is an estimate subject to minimal changes.

To illustrate our immeasurable gratitude, we are providing various perks depending on your contribution amount! This includes digital and physical mementos, credit mentions, and even exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content!

We completely understand if monetary contributions are not in the picture for you right now. Anything helps, including just spreading the word to anyone and everyone!

We also strongly encourage you to use Indiegogo's share tools to share this campaign with others who may be interested! To keep tabs on us, follow our Instagram, @blankcanvasut, for updates on the film! Feel free to reshare our updates as well to maximize our outreach.

You have the ability to help make this writer and director’s dream come true. Thank you so much for your support.