Riopelle was the co-founder, with Paul-Émile Borduas, of the Automatiste movement, signing the Manifeste du refus global in 1948.  Subsequently he went to live in Paris, where he met writers and painters, including Breton, Miro, Beckett, Giacometti and Calder.  He exhibited frequently throughout Europe and America.  He returned to Quebec in the 1990's, where he divided his time between Ile aux Grues, Iles aux Oies and Ste-Marguerite Masson du Lac.  In 1992 he learnt of the death of Joan Mitchell, who had been his long-time companion in Paris, and this prompted Riopelle to paint a huge mural: Hommage à Rosa Luxembourg.  This work was his hymn to love and passing time, and is exhibited in a room dedicated to the master at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Quebec City.

Riopelle's work had a great impact on the art of the XXth century, and examples can be found in prestigious collections and museums throughout the world.  The painter enjoys international recognition.