Vicki Noble

Vicki Noble, born in 1947, is an American feminist healer, author, scholar, and teacher recognized for her contributions to understanding female shamanism and related spiritual practices. Originally from Iowa, she established herself in Berkeley, California, in 1976. Her academic background includes graduating with honors from and later teaching in the first women's interdisciplinary studies program at Colorado College. Noble has collaborated extensively with archaeologist Marija Gimbutas and has lectured internationally on female shamanism and healing arts. She has developed a ritual healing process and led spiritual pilgrimages to sacred sites globally.

Her significant contributions to esoteric literature include co-authoring the Motherpeace Tarot with artist Karen Vogel, a project rooted in the history and ethnography of female esoteric traditions. Noble has also authored influential books on female shamanism, such as 'Shakti Woman.' She founded and published the magazine 'Snakepower,' which was nominated for a significant award, and later compiled its content into an anthology. Noble has held academic positions, including Scholar in Residence at the New College of California, and has conducted research in Russia, focusing on Eurasian nomadic cultures.

Vicki Noble's career is marked by her deep engagement with women's spirituality and shamanic healing. She was instrumental in the early development of women's studies programs, graduating from and teaching at the pioneering women's interdisciplinary studies program at Colorado College. Her extensive work with archaeologist Marija Gimbutas provided a foundation for her research into ancient female spiritual traditions. Noble has shared her expertise through graduate-level teaching and lectures both in the U.S. and internationally, focusing on the themes of female shamanism and the healing arts. She has also developed a distinct ritual healing process and has organized numerous women's pilgrimages to significant Goddess sites across the globe, including locations in Peru, Ireland, Greece, and Egypt.

A central aspect of Vicki Noble's work is the Motherpeace Tarot, which she co-created with artist Karen Vogel. This tarot deck and its accompanying materials are based on extensive research into the historical and ethnographic evidence of female esoteric practices. Beyond the Motherpeace project, Noble has authored several well-regarded books exploring female shamanism, with 'Shakti Woman' being a notable example. Her engagement with esoteric publishing also includes the creation of the magazine 'Snakepower,' which garnered recognition, and its subsequent compilation into the anthology 'Uncoiling the Snake.' Her writings often delve into ancient patterns and their relevance to contemporary women's lives.