Riopelle

The new pavilion is set to open in October 2026, and the work of Jean Paul Riopelle, one of the most prominent Québec artists of the 20th century, will shine within it. A vast reference exhibition, one of the largest ever presented on the artist, will celebrate all the diversity and richness of his work. 

This exhibition will showcase an exceptional donation from philanthropists Michael Audain and Pierre Lassonde, alongside several iconic works from the Musée’s collection. The selection will be rounded off by a few essential pieces from our prestigious partners.

An impressive overview

Designed for the general public, the impressive 1,000-square-metre exhibition will offer an overview of Riopelle’s work. It will feature around 100 paintings, sculptures, and works on paper from all periods of his career. On display will be his Automatiste paintings, his famous “mosaics” from the 1950s, his magnificent bestiaries, his many prints inspired by the Québec landscape, and the surprising mixed-technique works of his last years. 

Seven themes

The exhibition is organized around seven themes that provide essential reference points for appreciating the artist’s creations. It will address topics such as the exploration of gesture, the feel of nature, the dialogue between abstraction and figuration, recycling and reclamation, and interpretations of the North. Its ambitious design will highlight the full scope and monumental character of Riopelle’s work, using technologically innovative mediation devices.

We will demonstrate how Riopelle constantly reinvented himself, producing a body of work that remains vital to this day and reflects an eternal quest for self-improvement driven by an uncompromising spirit of freedom. Faithful to his Québec roots, he was nonetheless open to the world and tackled highly topical themes such as the environment and nordicity. Above all, however, Riopelle was a profoundly authentic artist whose vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who encountered him. Driven by an inexhaustible vitality, his passionate work still impresses to this day.