The Suffolk University Gallery presents a two-part exhibit: Materials Matter 1, a solo show of the works of Lavaughan Jenkins, and Materials Matter 2, Lavaughan Jenkins and Friends.

A reception for the artist will be held from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8.

Jenkins’ paintings push the medium’s boundaries as he employs oil paint to make three-dimensional work or “3D paintings.” The work alludes to the recent history of painting, reflecting artists for whom the material is essential, from Joan Mitchell to Wayne Thiebaud to Mark Bradford. The pieces are a hybrid, a way of experiencing the paint in space. They are an exuberant declaration of love for the material itself and of the idea that materials matter.

The Boston-based Jenkins received the Blanche E. Coleman Award in 2015 and the Rob Moore Grant in 2002. He has exhibited in galleries nationally and internationally. He is an upcoming ICA/Boston James and Audrey Foster Prize recipient.

Materials Matter 1 is at the gallery through Nov. 27, and Materials Matter 2 follows from Dec. 4 through Jan. 22, 2019.