In 1950, Francis moved to Paris to study at the Atelier Fernand Leger where he was influenced by Riopelle and Jackson Pollack. Francis took a world tour in 1957 which exposed him to many new techniques and influences. These influences resulted in the development of a style known as tachisme. Tachisme is a technique where free-flowing oil paint is permitted to drip down the canvas, creating an accidental design. In the painting "Meaningless Gesture" this style is well illustrated: the canvas is covered in light, cloud-like forms with thin streams of paint raining down.

Sam Francis exhibits around the world. His paintings are included in major collections throughout the United States.