From my own observations and experiences engaging with art communities, it's clear that discussions around modern art are rarely just about aesthetics anymore. Often, critiques are entangled with larger political narratives that seek to frame modern and contemporary art as a threat to a nation's cultural purity or identity. This tactic has roots going back to the early 20th century, where fascist movements despised modernist movements, branding them as degenerate or corrupting influences on society. For example, the fascist regimes in 1920s and 1930s Europe actively disparaged avant-garde artists, viewing their work as ideological attacks against traditional values and national culture. This is echoed in current times, where certain right-wing groups use criticism of modern art to push a 'return to classical aesthetics' narrative that aligns with their political goals. They portray modern art not just as bad or incomprehensible, but as a symbolic invasion aimed at undermining established cultural norms. Recognizing this pattern helps us separate genuine artistic critique from politically motivated rhetoric. It also challenges us to appreciate the complexity and diversity within modern and contemporary art, which continues to evolve and inspire despite these attacks. Moreover, understanding this manipulation gives us a lens to critically assess cultural debates and resist simplistic narratives that reduce art to mere political tools. In my visits to art exhibitions and through conversations with artists, I've seen firsthand how the political context influences public reception of art. Many artists consciously tackle social and political themes, which can trigger varied reactions depending on the ideological leanings of the audience. Rather than dismissing modern art outright, it's valuable to engage with it critically and contextually, acknowledging the layers of meaning and the risks of politicizing artistic discourse unfairly. Ultimately, defending the autonomy and richness of art means being aware of its exploitation by harmful ideologies and recognizing the importance of nuanced conversations beyond surface-level criticisms.