L’Université Paris Cité dévoile l’exposition « La couleur de nos métiers » à travers l’objectif du photographe Pascal Maitre

From 14 September 2026, the Grand Hall and the gates of the Odéon site (Paris 6e) will host the photographic exhibition "La couleur de nos métiers", by renowned photojournalist Pascal Maitre.

An immersion into the rich heart of the university community

With its 71,736 students, Université Paris Cité constitutes a veritable "city within a city", supported by 2,794 administrative, scientific, and technical staff, as well as 4,838 academic staff: lecturer-researchers, lecturers, and researchers. Through 265 identified professions, the exhibition reflects the plurality of this ecosystem: from administrative management to pedagogical support, including research support. Pascal Maitre's lens immortalises unique and sometimes little-known skills: from glassblowers to cardiac surgeons, sound engineers, or adapted physical activity teachers. The result of eight months of immersion, this project comes six years after the creation of Université Paris Cité and highlights the diversity and dynamism of the community formed by the professionals who bring it to life daily.

Pascal Maitre's perspective: the art of photojournalism

A photojournalist for over 45 years, Pascal Maitre began his career in 1979 at Jeune Afrique before collaborating with prestigious agencies (Gamma, Cosmos) and major French and international media (L’Express, Le Figaro Magazine, Stern, National Geographic…). A specialist in the African continent and familiar with many areas of the world, from the Middle East to Siberia, this time he swaps distant expeditions for a deep dive into the heart of the university. For eight months, he traversed the campuses of Université Paris Cité, meeting staff to capture the reality of their daily lives. Recognised for the narrative power of his shots, Pascal Maitre offers a unique perspective on this ecosystem, thus revealing the full richness and plurality of its expertise.