About the American Institute of Floral Designers > Artist in Residence (AIR) Program

About Us > Artist in Residence (AIR)

Artist in Residence (AIR) is a cooperative program of industry partner, active and student members of AIFD that work together to facilitate the placement of AIFD guest educators at colleges and universities with SAIFD Chapters. Each SAIFD Chapter is required to host an AIR program on an annual basis.

Through this program, leading industry designers are linked to the campuses with SAIFD Chapters. AIFD designers/commentators are invited to teach and demonstrate some of the floral industry's latest trends, techniques, and styles. This knowledge helps to strengthen student's skills as they enter the job market. In addition, the students also receive the benefits of hands-on, one-on-one design work with the guest artist. The AIR program builds bridges of community and career opportunities while also helping industry designers become more knowledgeable about colleges and their training programs.

Steps to Hosting an AIR Program | Follow-up Procedure

Steps to Hosting an AIR Program

1. Determine the date and type of AIR program for your SAIFD Chapter and/or floral design classes.
2. Contact an AIFD designer or commentator who is willing to participate. There is typically no payment to the designer for their services as it is a fulfillment of their commitment to better educate students as set forth in the AIFD Code of Ethics and Professional Practices. However, expenses such as travel, meals and hotel accommodations should be paid by the hosting Chapter.
3. Contact the Student Membership/AIR Committee Chair if questions arise or a designer cannot be found.
4. Contact local suppliers or other AIFD Associate members to request small product donations specific to the scheduled program.
5. Host the guest designer by introducing to other faculty, administrators, and local members of the floral industry if appropriate. Take the time to let the guest designer meet with students individually, or in small groups to discuss the opportunities and advantages of a career in the floral industry.
6. The length of the AIR program is flexible, with the guest designer visiting the college campus from 1-3 days.

Follow-up Procedure

1. Complete the AIR Grant Application & Post Program Questionnaires. Send these to the National Student Membership/AIR Committee Chair for approval. It will be forwarded to AIFD Headquarters to initiate payment to your SAIFD Chapter for a $500.00 grant. Processing will typically take 2-4 weeks.
2. Prepare a press release. Include photographs, digital, color, or black/white, and a short
description of the program including guest designers, sponsors, and number of
participants. Make four copies - 1. Send to local newspaper, 2. Send to AIFD Focal
Points Editor, 3. Send to sponsor(s), 4. Send to National Student Membership/AIR Chair.
3. Deadline for submission of all AIR Grant Applications in June 1st. Late submissions will
not be eligible for grant consideration.

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