Ruhe began collecting Aboriginal art while visiting Australia as a Fulbright Scholar in 1965. He built a collection of the highest quality rivaling many museum collections in Australia. As part the University of Virginia, the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection has undertaken a full program of rotating exhibits, public lectures, research on the collection, and education programs for children and adults. Admission is free. The exhibition space is ADA accessible.
Parking is available in the front of the building.
The exhibition displays rare books, maps, manuscripts, and other items from the recently acquired collection of noted American philanthropist and collector, Paul Mellon. Included are items from Christopher Columbus, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, James Madison, and others. Also on display are items relating to exploration and westward expansion, colonial and revolutionary Virginia, the Civil War, Lewis and Clark's expedition, and more. Inquiries advised for holiday and summer schedules. The exhibition Thomas Jefferson at Monticello explores many aspects of Jefferson's domestic life.