Gaze upon the controversial and censored art!

The curators of the Manchester Art Gallery thought they could drum up some free good press by participating in the #MeToo movement, but the plan has almost completely backfired. The gallery replaced Hylas and the Nymphs by JW Waterhouse with a sign. Supporters of the movement can see through the charade, non-supporters brand the act as censorship, and nearly everyone is pissed off.

Also read: 32 Medieval History Memes To Make You Laugh

The idea started simply enough. "We'll take down a piece of art as a token move to the feminists." There's only one problem. The painting chosen is one the most cherished works in the whole museum.

This is fine, as long as the conversation begins: "please put the painting back up and stop being so silly". https://t.co/zl3H7E3PDj

— Stig Abell (@StigAbell) February 1, 2018

Self-proclaimed allies, and even victims of sexual assault are equally furious.

"the debates around Time’s Up & #MeToo had fed into the decision." How the fuck does this factor into 'me too'? I'm pretty sure none of my abusers went to an art gallery to look at some Victorian tits before they molested/assaulted me. #MAGSoniaBoyce https://t.co/fGYhIBVwvG

— Claire Eyles (@Emerald_xoxox) February 1, 2018

Visitors can post their thoughts on the stunt on the museum's wall. The museum wanted to spark conversation about feminism...

... and a conversation they got.