Name of the tool:
AMIC FRAMEWORK
What the result will look like:
A formal but flexible structure for improvisation enabling playful connection with individuals, particularly those considered hard to reach.
Description of the tool:
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AMIC stands for Acknowledge, Mirror, Improvise, Challenge, and it describes the process an artist can go through in their encounters with persons living with dementia, particularly those who show little cognitive understanding or reaction. Starting point for the encounter can be a breath, a sound, movement or mood. The tool is derived from a music therapy exercise, but has been developed for use in clowning and other creative encounters.
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When it can be used:
To provide the basis for a first encounter and a starting point for engagements with persons living with dementia. It is particularly useful for interactions with individuals who are non-verbal or only show very limited reactions.
Who it’s useful for:
The clowns can use it to playfully connect and build a relationship, which can allow taking positive risks.
Length of process:
It is a short term process that implies consecutive related steps. Variable and dependent on the individual, lasting on average 5 – 10 minutes. The process can be repeated and built upon.
Main features - advantages:
Once familiar with the tool & system, no preparation is required. This tool often increases artists’ awareness & confidence, by providing a system & structure to follow, rather than only relying on instincts.
Main features - disadvantages:
If steps are taken too quickly, the participant can get left behind. If a step is jumped, playful trust can be broken. Attention and care need to be taken not to mirror anything considered a physical ‘tic’.
Guidelines for implementation:
The starting point for using this tool is the person we encounter during our clown visits and the rhythm & essence of their breath, movement, sound or mood. Beginning with an observational ‘pause’, the artist is able to tune in with the person and follow a series of steps in consecutive order: 1. Acknowledge (validate, affirm, respect, recognise, appreciate) – 2. Mirror (imitate, copy, mimic, reflect, the same) – 3. Improvise (play, develop, evolve, extend, grow)
Tool in practice:
During ClowNexus, AMIC was practicesed during the 3rd artistic laboratory on dementia in Austria. “Challenge” was replaced with “Risk”.
