Why Ursa Noctua? Why Arts?
 

Both Ursa (the Bear) and Noctua (the Owl) have a special place in my life – both have aided my in my journey. Some folks call them totems, some call them Spirit Animals. I hold these Animal Beings in high regard, and an honored to work with them. And as for the arts part: simply put – being an herbalist and a visual artist are both arts that I practice.

​

My Story

​

My name is Leigh Arnoldy, and I am Minnesota herbalist in the Twin Cities South Metro Area.

​

My official documents state that I have a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Minnesota Duluth, and I have taught music for 20 years. From a young age, I have been in love with the arts and nature, spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and identifying plants.  At some point, I fell into a pile of astrology books and haven't crawled out since.  While teaching music, Spirit gave me a nudge, and I knew it was time to return to my nature-loving roots. This time, I brought with me my self studies in mythology and the esoteric; in 2016, I became a student of the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism. 

 

Currently, I am work for the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism, as operations assistant, as well as teaching the Doctrine of Signatures classes.

​

In my spare time, I like to create Spirit-based art, pick blackcap raspberries, and teach in-person herbal classes locally. I enjoy writings and teachings that can incorporate my background in archetypes and mythology. 

​

I am actively involved with my local co-op by serving as secretary on the Board of Directors and hope to help it expand to meet the growing demand for natural and organic foods and health products.