The Impersonation. Apropos the disappearance of Reginald Pepper - ACE146.2

Credits. Caption: "Until drastic, government-imposed budget cuts brought about the closure of the film department of the Swindon School of Art and Design, Andrew K. was principal tutor of film production there. Following his recent death in a Salvation Army refuge, several rolls of unedited film and video tape, as well as a sheaf of notes and directives, were found among his effects." Caption: "‘Successful glimpses, here faithfully imparted, our more gifted readers must endeavour to combine for their own behoof!’ Thomas Carlyle, Sartor Resartus." Swindon School of Art and Design. VO says that Third Year student assignment is to make a documentary on the life and work of local "Sunday painter", Reginald Pepper, who recently disappeared. Students . VO lists materials that students will have available. An event at the Portal Gallery; paintings by Reginald Pepper. VO suggests to John Grierson unit they obtain copies of Pepper paintings for filming on Department rostrum. Caption: "Mrs Michael Carter, Art Collector." Mrs Carter talking about the paintings, saying that the "primitive" style is not usually a good investment, and relating an anecdote that suggests that "primitive" painters are often not at all naïve. Pepper paintings and other decorated artefacts. Photographs of people, streets and cityscapes: VO says "To Jean-Luc Godard unit: please stick to the assigned topic!" Paintings. "Note to John Grierson unit: these rostrum views are very handsome, but a bit dull, don’t you think?..." "Animated collage" of Mrs Pepper and Auntie May taking tea; Reginald Pepper character accidentally bangs into door. "Note to Federico Fellini unit: I believe you’re going about this in entirely the wrong way…" Auntie May leaving house; Reginald being berated by Mrs Pepper for painting by the canal. Woman in street tells film-makers where canal used to be. Man talks about canal disappearing in 17th century; thinks Swindon should have more technology. Second man would like canal back. Photographs and film of canal. "To John Gierson unit: Your interest in the pastoral nostalgia of the Pepper paintings is valuable, but beware of self-indulgent aestheticism." Pigs. Painting of pigs.