If there’s one thing London organizers should take from the Beijing Olympics, besides the cunning and ruthlessness involved, and necessary, to con the gymnastics’ world with 14 year old athletes, it’s to be forthright about production. For example, relinquish any pride and take credit for your goofs. Even if they are extremely humiliating and in poor taste. Like, explain why you included the image of a child-murdering women in your cascade of flowing tributes to your city…because people are probably going to wonder, “wtf?”

Downing Street led condemnation of London’s tourism body today after a painting of Moors murderer Myra Hindley was shown in a promotional video screened Beijing.

The picture was used in a film intended to highlight the capital’s rich cultural heritage ahead of the 2012 games.

The controversial piece of art by Marcus Harvey was fleetingly seen during a segment of the Visit London video filmed in a gallery where it was on display.

The gaffe occurred at a party to celebrate the handover of the Olympics to London attended by the prime minister, Gordon Brown, and the mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

Basically, it’s like the US showcasing a Warhol painting of Charles Manson’s image. Probably not gonna down well with anyone who watches the Olympics and dislikes murderers. Few and far between, we’re sure, but better safe than sorry, ya know?

Officials condemn use of Hindley portrait in London 2012 video [Guardian]
Image [Guardian]