Definition of a Blank Canvas

Many paintings begin as blank canvases.

The term "blank canvas" can refer to a number of different things, both literal and metaphorical. However, all meanings have in common the idea of an empty starting point.

Literal

The literal definition of a blank canvas refers to a white or off-white piece of cloth. A blank canvas for artists to paint on is often stretched tightly over a wood frame and stapled to the inside of the frame.

Other Art Definitions

A blank canvas can refer to artistic supplies other than canvas that have not yet been filled with art. For example, a piece of paper could be considered a blank canvas for a writer or poet and a roll of photographic film is a blank canvas for a photographer.

Metaphors

The definition of a blank canvas can include metaphors that have nothing to do with art. For example, somebody just getting into the world of politics may be called a "blank canvas" because he does not know much yet about working in that environment.

References

• Dictionary: Canvas
• Emerald Insight: In Front of the Blank Canvas-Sensing Emerging Futures