Experiencing Interruptions?

Pass the Canvas

An intimate portrait of two people united by artistic passion. Together, Eric and Margot balance life as art-makers and full-time teachers. Within their relationship lies an inspiring account of creative drive and collaboration.

  • Samuel Karow
    Director
    3 Miles East, Marshland
  • Eric Nelson
    Key Cast
  • Margot Jones
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    16 minutes 21 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    March 26, 2015
  • Production Budget:
    1,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • 2015 Central Wisconsin Film Festival
    Marshfield, WI
    World Premiere
  • 2015 Weyauwega International Film Festival
    Weyauwega, WI
  • 2016 Wildwood Film Festival
    Appleton, WI
    Best Documentary
  • 2016 Beloit International Film Festival
    Beloit, WI
  • 2016 Chippewa Valley Film Festival
    Eau Claire, WI
Director Biography - Samuel Karow

Samuel Karow is a video artist based in Central Wisconsin. In 2011 he received his BFA from UW-Milwaukee's Department of Film. Specializing in documentaries, Karow seeks to capture genuine moments of beauty, intimacy, and conflict. When given ample time for discovery, he finds that the ordinary becomes quite extraordinary.

Karow's work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. His award-winning short film “3 Miles East” was included in the 64th Cannes Film Festival Court Metrage.

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Director Statement

Entering the world after film school, I quickly grew disillusioned with the idea of a career in the arts. I looked to Eric and Margot for encouragement. The married couple had maintained a successful balance as both art-makers and full-time teachers for more than 20 years. I wanted to know their recipe for success.

Eric had been my art teacher in Junior High School. His unwavering energy and enthusiasm helped guide me through the threshold where art evolves from pastime to life passion.

Nearly one decade later, Eric and Margot would show me that a life in the arts can not only exist, but thrive. It all started with an afternoon visit to the couple's home/studio, secluded deep in Central Wisconsin's countryside. What I saw astounded me: two people living life on their own terms, doing what they love, and without compromise. I had no choice but to document everything I saw. With this film my goal is to share the newfound optimism their relationship instilled in me.