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YOU USE YOU LOSE

2023

"Mom says, avoid drugs!"

- LACH DE TEMMERMAN -

A sculptural statement for drug prevention
 

YOU USE YOU LOSE is a groundbreaking art project by LACH De Temmerman, in which he creates sculptures from chemically neutralized cocaine. By literally transforming a dangerous substance into art, the drug issue becomes visible in a direct and tangible way.
 

The sculptures are processed safely and presented in armored, bullet resistant glass vitrines. Each piece is sold at a symbolic value that reflects the illegal market price of cocaine.
 

All proceeds support drug prevention initiatives in Belgium.

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Art that confronts, transforms, and engages


YOU USE YOU LOSE brings the unspoken into the open.


The project:

  • shows how a destructive substance can be reshaped into a creative and constructive object

  • creates space for dialogue about substance use and its impact

  • uses art as a lever for social awareness


The work "Mom says, avoid drugs!" highlights the responsibility of parents and society in protecting young people. Every user and every dealer has a mother who is affected by his choices.

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From destruction to creation


Seized cocaine is normally destroyed through costly incineration procedures.


YOU USE YOU LOSE offers an alternative:

  • the drugs are fully neutralized and rendered chemically unusable

  • the material is given new meaning within an artistic context

  • the proceeds are used for prevention and awareness programs


What once caused harm becomes a source of social value.

Mission


With this project, LACH aims to:

  • contribute to drug prevention through art

  • raise awareness about the reality of cocaine use

  • demonstrate that art can play an active role in societal change


YOU USE YOU LOSE positions Belgium as a pioneer at the intersection of art, prevention, and social innovation.

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