Cocktails & Conversation: Rachel Milford and the Art of Puppets

Thursday, April 30, 2026

5:30-7:30pm

Lecture begins at 6pm

Meet the creative spirit behind Knoxville’s Cattywampus Puppet Council, Rachel Milford. For the past nine years, Cattywampus has been bringing innovative theater, youth programming, people-powered parades, and giant puppet magic to communities across East Tennessee and the South. In connection with the Wayne White: Revenge of the Knoxville Girl exhibition (up through July 12), Milford will share her experience working with giant puppets, building community collaboration by organizing puppet parades, and how that has influenced and shaped her career as an artist.

Rachel Milford, Founder, Executive Director, & Art Director for Cattywampus Puppet Council, is a Knoxville-based artist and brings with her over 20 years of experience in visual art, theater, storytelling, and youth education. She’s worked as a teaching and performing artist with organizations throughout the region, including the Knoxville Museum of Art, Community School of the Arts, Knox County Schools, Johnson City Public Art, and most recently as Community Arts Director for the Big Ears Festival.

Cocktails and Conversation is a relaxed learning experience where you can grad a drink and refreshments while exploring the arts in your community.

Free and open to the public, cash/credit bar and light refreshments.

Doors open at 5:30, lecture begins at 6pm.