An event announced on August 12. The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) invites the public to celebrate the opening of the Espace Riopelle – Michael Audain Pavilion from October 22 to 25, 2026, as announced in the Museum's release. It is one of the most significant recent architectural and cultural projects in Quebec.
Who it is for. Jean Paul Riopelle (1923-2002) is one of the most important Quebec and Canadian artists of the 20th century, associated with the Automatist movement. The new pavilion, built with a budget of $84 million, presents more than 130 Riopelle works from the Museum's collection: the largest public collection devoted to the artist. The three-storey, 5,000 m² building also houses a new presentation of the national collection of modern art.
What is on during the celebrations. Four inaugural exhibitions are on display, including the Riopelle, l'expression du geste retrospective and Hommage à Rosa Luxemburg, a 40-metre fresco shown over nearly 360 degrees. Over the four days, dance performances, music from the Conservatoire de musique de Québec, art films, a virtual reality experience on the icebergs of the Far North and a creation workshop for all ages will bring the visit to life.
Book early. Until September 7 inclusive, the first visitors save $5 on the purchase of a regular ticket. Places are limited and booking is recommended, especially for the opening celebrations. The Museum is located in Quebec City, on the Plains of Abraham.
Good to know for newcomers: discovering Riopelle means understanding an important part of Quebec's cultural identity — and it will also make a natural conversation topic with your new neighbours. The pavilion's opening is a unique chance to visit a brand-new museum, with reduced rates if you book before September 7.
