William Sharp (British, 1749-1824). Scene from King Lear. Engraving. Collection of University of Virginia Art Museum.

The University Art Museum kicks off a yearlong examination of the formation of American culture with the opening of a new exhibit,
“Jefferson In and Out: A Look at the World that Shaped His Cultural Interests.” The exhibit traces the world cultural influences upon U.Va. founder Thomas Jefferson, whom museum director Jill Hartz called “an 18th-century man who appreciated the visual and performing arts.” The exhibit runs through Oct. 10. For details, call 924-3592, or visit the museum’s Web site: http://www.virginia.edu/artmuseum.