The Theodora Foundation initiated a collaboration with the CIBM Center for Biomedical Imaging, giving rise to an unprecedented research effort aimed at investigating the impact of healthcare clowning through advanced biomedical tools and metrics. This initiative focuses on uncovering the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying laughter and play, marking a novel convergence between art, medicine, and neuroscience.
Preliminary findings from this large-scale collaborative project led by Solange Denervaud and involving researchers from EPFL, CHUV-UNIL, UNIL, and SUPSI, highlight the richness and complexity of this interdisciplinary endeavor. Key contributors include Ivan Diaz (EPFL), Paola Zanchi (CHUV-UNIL), Nicolas Bourdillon (UNIL), Jean-Baptiste Ledoux (CHUV), Dimitra Tatli (EPFL), Jérôme Thévenot (EPFL), Eleonora Fornari (CHUV), Mathieu Horeau (SUPSI), Isabelle Vonèche Cardia (EPFL), Jonas Richiardi (CHUV), and Pina Marziliano (EPFL). The project also relies on the direct involvement of Giggle Doctors from the Theodora Foundation (Meli Melo, Kravat, Clafoutis, Pilouface), as well as clinical staff including nurses Olivier and Stéphanie. This work has been supported by members of the Theodora Foundation, including Miriam Bass, Jan and André Poulie, Sylvie Gellein, Seda Mediano, Angélique Buehlmann, Martine Maquet, Delphine Arvengas, Michèle Costantini, and Tamara Attali, and has received media coverage (RTS 19h30).
The HCIM 2026 conference brought together an international community of artists, healthcare professionals, researchers, and practitioners for three days of intensive exchange dedicated to the evolving field of healthcare clowning. Held from March 11 to 13, the conference featured a rich and diverse program including plenary sessions, interactive workshops, artistic performances, and informal networking opportunities. A central theme was the integration of art and science, with several sessions exploring the neurobiological and psychological foundations of humor and play, as well as their measurable effects on patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
Marking both 40 years of healthcare clowning and 10 years since the first HCIM conference, the event provided a unique opportunity to reflect on past achievements while actively shaping the future of the field. The CIBM contributed as a scientific partner, reinforcing the growing dialogue between the arts and biomedical sciences in healthcare contexts. Pina Marziliano participated in both the opening and closing ceremonies, where she presented the award for best poster. Solange Denervaud presented the preliminary findings of the research project in a plenary session co-presented with Mathieu Horeau (Accademia Teatro Dimitri), the discussion further addressed how humor and play facilitate the integration of emotional and cognitive processes, enhance resilience, and deepen human connection across clinical and cultural contexts.
Beyond the formal program, the conference fostered a strong sense of community through shared artistic experiences and informal exchanges, reinforcing HCIM’s collaborative and interdisciplinary spirit. It concluded with a collective reflection on the future of healthcare clowning, emphasizing its increasing recognition as a meaningful and impactful component of healthcare systems worldwide. Participants left with renewed energy and a shared vision of “curing with care,” grounded in creativity, empathy, and human connection.
Enjoy our Photogallery and relive the experience with HCIM 2026 Aftermovie by the Theodora Foundation
