Call for Abstracts
This is your chance to share your expertise with the world
In 40 years, healthcare clowning has changed dramatically. This art form had to adopt according to the increasing demand of the beneficiaries. Coming from the entertainment sector, healthcare clowns are professionals with a specialized training and have developed their unique skills for working in sensitive settings. The activity is now defined by quality standards and is making its way in different circles as a “non medical approach” to support people’s physical and mental well-being. Let’s take a break and contemplate what has been achieved and what the future challenges will be.
What unites all of us? What defines where we are and what we are not? What makes us different to other humanizing activities in the healthcare and social sectors?
Topics
Submissions are welcomed in the following 5 areas:
1. Performing arts in healthcare
Abstracts under this theme should explore how the use of humor, play, imagination and clowning in healthcare settings builds connections, reduces stress, and supports patients, families and staff. This topic also focuses on teaching practical tools and techniques, with an emphasis on hands-on learning through workshops. Key questions might include: How do comedian artists and clowns transform clinical spaces? What impact does their work have on patient wellbeing or staff morale? How can this approach evolve further?
2. Art of connecting
This theme focuses on the essential role and skills healthcare clowning enables in healthcare and vulnerable environments. How can we foster meaningful interactions through feedback culture, integrative approaches, and positive communication? Share your strategies, tools, and experiences for building genuine connections across diverse contexts and professions.
3. The transforming power of play and imagination
Submissions under this theme should highlight how play and imagination empower patients, shift perspectives, and build trust in healthcare settings. How can artists use these tools to help patients feel seen, heard, and supported during challenging medical experiences?
4. Research, impact and social sustainability
Focusing on the value of evidence-based practice, this theme invites abstracts that showcase the impact of healthcare clowning through research. Why does research matter? How do we apply results to improve outcomes? How can evidence strengthen the field’s value in society? Share your findings and methodologies.
5. The future of humanizing care
This theme calls for visionary ideas on how healthcare clowning can evolve. Abstracts could explore innovative practices, new partnerships, or emerging trends that prioritize patient-centered care. What matters most for the future of healthcare clowning, and how can it meet changing needs? Topics of interest include non-pharmacological approaches, pain management, and co-creative care practices. In this context, sustainable fundraising plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term impact and development of healthcare clowning initiatives –what successful strategies and models can secure their future?