THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AS SEEN BY PABLO RAISON

It was an unusual commission for me, as I usually work on maps of old cities or historical monuments. Depicting a modern hospital, especially one still partly under construction, was a real challenge. But as someone from Normandy, I've always known the Caen University Hospital. It's the first building you see on the horizon when arriving in the city. It's a landmark, almost a symbol. So I was very happy to have the opportunity to depict it.

First, a lot of research was required: I worked from 3D views on Google Earth, photos taken from the roof of the current university hospital, and plans. The drawing therefore blends a very precise element of reality with a touch of imagination – for example, I added trees that haven't been planted yet. I wanted to maintain a faithful yet lively style, with figures, cars, the tram, and even the city of Caen in the background. I use a very fine Rotring pen with India ink. This drawing took me about a month to complete, not counting the research phase.

I wasn't trying to convey a direct message, but representing a hospital as important as the one in Caen was something I felt strongly about. My mother is a nursing assistant, so I know the importance of these places and the people who work there. I see this drawing as a way to pay tribute to them. And more broadly, I believe that art has its place in a hospital: it can offer a moment of escape, beauty, and sometimes even comfort to everyone who passes through.