This year's New York art expo, under new management, was moved from its customary location at the Javits center to Pier 94. The move however, did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of art lovers who flocked as usual to the world's largest fine and popular art fair. As usual, one of the highlights of the annual event (certainly for us) was Jane Seymour whose picture was featured prominently in the lobby of the exhibition center.

Unlike previous years, we had driven this time; foolishly laughing off horror stories of the Lincoln Tunnel and driving in New York. Too late we realized they were not just stories as we found ourselves observing in fascination and horror as 6 lanes of traffic fought to converge into one in order to enter the Lincoln tunnel (all without benefit of actual LANES) Picture little children playing 'cars' all jockying for positions, racing their vehicles to one goal. If it hadn't been so frightening it would have been hilarious- We actually did laugh at one point at a sign that cautioned drivers to "stay in your own lane" WHAT lane we wondered- if we could FIND one we'd have been happy to have stayed in it! I can only say now that I have a new respect for New York drivers- as well as my friend Renea. Anyone who can run the gauntlet of NY traffic can handle anything as far as I'm concerned! Bicycle anyone?

We finally did reach our goal- pier 94 and the NY art expo miraculously intact. Jane was in a wonderful mood and greeted us warmly almost bubbling over with news she was anxious to share. First, she was filming a pilot for a new series although she would likely not be in the series itself. The character, she said, with a decided 'gleam' in her eye, was a cross between "Cruella Deville and J.K. Rowling". We immediately had visions of J.K. Rowling writing a sequel to Harry Potter while wearing a dalmation fur coat! (please no black and white wigs though!) She definitely had us intrigued! Jane laughed at our response reiterating that she would be playing "evil' - and that it was hysterically funny. The pilot would be filming on Monday so her appearance at the expo this year we learned would be limited to just the one day.

She also had another surprise for us, a sneak peak at a very special art catalogue that Susan Luks had put together as a surprise for her. The soft cover book features images of more than 80 of Jane's most well known works - a true treasure for anyone who admires Jane Seymour the artist. The books would be available we were told in a few weeks at an exceptional price- only $15 (plus postage). The vivid images, a combination of Jane's new and old offerings provide a fascinating snapshot of Jane's artistic range- proof of her outstanding talent.

Lastly, Jane's biggest news. She was writing another book and she had an invitation for all her fans to become a part of it. The phenomenal success of her Open Hearts Collection and subsequent book "Open Hearts' released last Christmas had led to Guidebooks publishing a new offering- "Angels Amongst Us" a complement to Jane's newest Open Heart creation- "open heart angels". Her invitation was for the fans who had touched her so deeply with their Open Heart stories in response to her last book to share with her once again stories of how angels- divine or human have worked in their lives. As Jane explained, unless you are living with an open heart, angels cannot work in your life. A closed heart is unable to recognize a divine messenger or accept the loving touch of an 'earthly angel". We agreed to spread the word and she thanked us adding a bit sheepishly that she really would need the stories by Thursday. Not much time but we would do what we could we promised.

Although our 'visit' was cut a bit short this year- Jane left earlier than planned, we had enjoyed the chance to catch up with our favorite "medicine woman" once again!

If you are interested in purchasing a copy of The Art of Jane Seymour- email us and we will add you to our pre order list.