Muse National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec: “A historic moment in philanthropy”

Thanks to the construction of the Espace Riopelle in Quebec, dozens of works by Jean-Paul Riopelle, now based in Toronto and Vancouver, were commissioned by wealthy collectors Pierre Lassonde and Michael J. Will be repatriated along with the Adines and kept in Quebec.

Also read: Twentieth American Art^E Century 2022 Summer Showcased

Jean-Luc Murray, director general of the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec, is pleased that “this collection should be repatriated to Quebec and become part of the legacy”, a $ 143 million project.

The 68 paintings donated to MNBAQ by the two patrons were valued at $ 100 million. The Jean-Paul Riopelle Foundation, designed by Adine, raised $ 20 million for the structure.

“This is a historic moment for philanthropy in Quebec,” said Pierre Lasond.

Yseult Riopelle, the daughter of a painter who died in 2002 in L’Isle-aux-Grues, also donated two canvases.

Works to share

Michael J. Adine, an octogenarian businessman who made his fortune in real estate in British Columbia, was heartily praised at today’s press conference at MNBAQ, saying it was important for him to share with the public the work he has to do.

“Artwork is going to live on long after us, so we have to share them,” he said.

Jean-Luc Murray welcomed his gesture. “I saw Mr. Adine’s writings in Vancouver, in his living room, and in his bedroom. I know what he is missing. “

1950s

The work transferred to the museum consists mainly of paintings from the Riopelle 1950s.

“This is the great period of Riopelle, the mosaics, the most shaped works. This period is for the most part in their collections. These are very large formats. Pavilion thinking involves a thought process. “

Like the Lassonde Pavilion, which opened in 2016, the creators of the Espace Riopelle reflected the bold construction for MNBAQ’s new wing, Mr Murray said.

“We need a building that fits in well with the museum ecosystem. The choice of Central Pavilion seemed fair to us. We are able to create a more efficient intersection with modernized open spaces and especially exhibition spaces dedicated to Jean-Paul Riopelle. “