The FLOW International Drawing Competition, based in the Oder city of Schwedt, is one of the most important drawing competitions in Germany. The first competition took place as early as 1968. The then working title "Along the Oil Pipeline Friendship" became the programme. Countries that were located along the pipeline took part in the competition. Over the years, this principle has been overturned
by social upheavals and changes in sponsors. Every year, around 2000 children and young people from all over the world send their works to Schwedt in a wide variety of techniques and on a wide variety of themes. The closing date for entries is 30 May for each year of the competition. After selection by an international jury, around 600 works are shown each year in the opening exhibition at the Uckermärkische Bühnen Schwedt and other public institutions in the city. This is followed by travelling exhibitions of the award-winning artistic works in the district of Uckermark and in the state of Brandenburg. Exhibitions on various themes are also held every year and presented abroad. In addition to attractive cash and non-cash prizes, each year the winners in age groups III and IV are invited to an art camp in Schwedt. The patron of the International Drawing Competition is Britta Ernst, Minister for Education, Youth and Sport of the State of Brandenburg. Since 2012, the sponsor has been the Association of Friends and Supporters of the "J. Schulz" Music and Art School in the city of Schwedt/Oder. This unique competition is supported by the Brandenburg Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, the city of Schwedt/Oder and the district of Uckermark.
