Blank-leaving has always been an important performative skill in the field of ink and wash painting. Blank-leaving can not only be applied to create the feeling of space, to accentuate the artistic conceptions, but also to express the flow of time through the resonance of spirits. The idea of applying blank-leaving in 2D paintings is mature nowadays. However, the applications of blank-leaving in animations are seldom discussed, even when animations tell stories mainly through pictures and the flow of time.

　This study apprehends and analyzes animations through the blank-leaving of ink and wash painting. As stated in the related literatures, blank-leaving can harmonize the presentation of visual elements in an image. It builds depth by creating contrast. For example, light and dark color, different ink intensity etc. Moreover, blank-leaving can also be a visual direction for viewers. The empty space in images creates rhythm and movement, which imbue the visual experience time and motion. Accordingly, we realize that the effects of applying blank-leaving in animations can be categorized into two sections－visually and mentally. In visual terms, blank-leaving helps bring out the focus of the narrative, form the visual balance of an image and enhance its visual aesthetics. From the mental side, the empty background can be employed to heighten characters’ moods; it deepens the emotion expressions in animations. Both ways help audience receive and resonate with affections and message that animations intend to convey.

　Based on the above study of the applications of blank-leaving, four methods are incorporated in the present animation：Present the story’s motif via black and white characters, render the characters’ emotion through monochromatic background, show the passage of time by blurring out the background and set the mood by using white color. Through applying blank-leaving in the animation, it is expected that the audience can immerse in the journey of self-exploration within the darkness with the character, feel the pain and eventually find inner peace by the leading of “Shine.”