The collection of drawings of the Tartu Art Museum consists mainly of works by Estonian artists, although Baltic German artists such as Johann Wilhelm Krause, August Matthias Hagen and Julie Hagen-Schwarz, Carl Timoleon von Neff and others are also represented.

The collection includes examples from the whole of the 20^th century, particularly with many drawings from the beginning and middle of the century.

Best represented among the earlier masters are Kristjan Raud with his drawings on the theme of Kalevipoeg, Nikolai Triik with his portraits, and Ado Vabbe with his earlier and later works. The legacy of Karin Luts is also rich. The best overview of the post-war period is offered by the drawings of Ülo Sooster.