Rachel Milford

Giant Puppets: Creating Large-Scale Papier-Mâché Heads

August 16 - 19, 2026

Open to All Skill Levels

Mixed Media, Special Topics, Puppetry

Overview

This workshop invites students into the magical world of giant puppet making by creating their own large-scale papier-mâché head from start to finish. Throughout the week, students will learn a variety of techniques, including building clay armatures, cardboard sculpting, and papier-mâché application. Each student will have the opportunity to implement these skills in the design and creation of their own puppet head, perfect for future parading, impromptu street theater, or an upcoming event. The workshop also covers construction and rigging techniques for transforming finished heads into giant backpack or multi-person puppets. Students should plan to take advantage of open studio time to maximize their hands-on practice and ensure their projects are completed for the final showcase.

Course Fee : $506.00

Only a few spots left!

Scholarships & Material Fees

Need help covering workshop costs? Arrowmont offers financial aid opportunities to broaden access to our arts and craft programs. We believe a diverse community enriches the learning experience for all.

Material fees are not included in our national workshop costs, but are included with the cost of our winter short workshops. A material list with estimated costs will be emailed about 30 days before the national workshop begins.

TUITION & FEES

SCHOLARSHIPS

Cost Breakdown

Registration Fee

$50.00

Weekend Workshop Tuition

$506.00

Estimated Cost*
*Fees exclude housing and meal plans

$556.00

VIEW HOUSING & MEAL PLAN COSTS

Artist Bio

Rachel Milford

Rachel Milford is a Knoxville-based artist and the founder and Executive & Artistic Director of Cattywampus Puppet Council. Rachel brings with her over twenty years of experience in visual art, theater, storytelling, community organizing, and youth education. She has worked as a teacher and performing artist throughout Central Appalachia and is known for utilizing play, giant puppets, and the celebration arts to cultivate joy and bring communities together. Through her work with Cattywampus, Milford has collaborated with a wide range of organizations and artists, including the Knoxville Museum of Art, UTK School of Art, Knox County Schools, Alternate Roots, Highlander Research and Education Center, Yo-Yo Ma, Willi Carlisle, and many others. Her work has most recently been featured at the William King Museum of Art in Abingdon, VA and the Joan Derryberry Gallery at TN Tech. In 2022, Rachel coordinated the Krewe du Cattywampus Parade alongside New Orleans’ legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band for the Big Ears Festival and later served as the festival's Community Arts Director during 2023. When she's not elbow deep in papier-mâché, she can be found playing a 28-inch bass drum in the Knox Honkers & Bangers community marching band!

Artist Website

Explore the Sculpture Studio

Located on the second floor of the Turner Building, the Sculptural Studio is steps from our Library & Resource Center and next to the Sandra J. Blain Galleries. The flexible nature of this studio makes it ideal for multimedia and sculpture classes where different types of media are being used. Adjacent to the Metals Studio our enamel classes and cold work, glass techniques are often taught in this space, allowing for a free flow of tools and equipment between the two workshops.

Explore the Sculpture Studio