Riopelle or the Nature of Space and Time: Our New Film at the MNBAQ

New film featured in the exhibition
Riopelle: The Expression of Gesture

We are delighted to unveil our new film, Riopelle or the Nature of Space and Time, which will be an integral part of the permanent exhibition Riopelle: The Expression of Gesture, presented in the brand-new Espace Riopelle at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ).

October 22, 2026 will mark the opening of the Espace Riopelle – Michael Audain Pavilion, a major new museum space dedicated to one of the most influential artists in the history of art in Québec and Canada. Four days of celebrations, from October 22 to 25, will mark this special occasion.

Vue aérienne du fleuve Saint-Laurent et de ses îles dans la brume, tirée du court-métrage Riopelle ou la nature de l’espace-temps, présenté dans l’exposition Riopelle. L’expression du geste au MNBAQ.

At the heart of the new pavilion, the permanent exhibition Riopelle: The Expression of Gesture invites visitors to explore the rich artistic universe of Jean Paul Riopelle, his creative journey, and his profound connection to nature, the land, and artistic creation.

One of the exhibition’s highlights will undoubtedly be the presentation of his monumental masterpiece, L’Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg, displayed in a circular gallery specially designed to house this extraordinary work.

It is in this exceptional setting, alongside L’Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg, that our new film, Riopelle or the Nature of Space and Time, will be on view for years to come.

Through aerial imagery of Quebec’s landscapes and Riopelle’s own voice drawn from archival recordings, we sought to create a sensitive and contemplative cinematic experience that resonates with his artistic vision. An invitation to explore the connections between nature, movement, time, and creativity, and to see the world around us from a different perspective.

We would like to warmly congratulate the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec and its entire team on bringing this remarkable project to life and all the partners who helped make it possible.

We would also like to sincerely thank our partners, without whom this new cinematic work would not have been possible. This project was made possible through the financial support of the Government of Québec and the City of Québec under the Cultural Development Agreement, as well as the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec.

We invite you to discover this magnificent new museum space and the exhibition Riopelle: The Expression of Gesture. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Riopelle’s world and enjoy our contemplative cinematic experience!

Riopelle or the Nature of Space and Time
A film by Mélanie Carrier and Olivier Higgins
A MÖ FILMS production

Discover our film

Explore the exhibition at the MNBAQ