THE CHU SEEN BY PABLO RAISON

This was an original commission for me, as I mainly work on maps of old cities or historical monuments. Depicting a modern hospital, and especially one that was still partly under construction, was a real challenge. But as a Norman, I've always known the Caen University Hospital. It's the first building you see on the horizon when you arrive in the city. It's a landmark, almost a symbol. So I was very happy to have the chance to depict it.

First, a lot of research was required: I worked from 3D views on Google Earth, photos taken on the roof of the current university hospital, and plans. The drawing therefore combines a very precise part of reality and a small part of imagination – for example, I added trees that are not yet planted. I wanted to keep a faithful but lively style, with people, cars, the tram, and even the city of Caen in the background. I use a very fine Rotring pen with Indian ink. It took me about a month to complete this drawing, not including the research phase.

I didn't try to convey a direct message, but representing a hospital as important as the one in Caen was close to my heart. My mother is a nursing assistant, and I know the importance of these places and those 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 all those who pass through it.