Reprinted from The Washington Post

Naul Ojeda, a Wizard of Whimsy

By Jo Ann Lewis, June 30, 2002

The recent opening of Naúl Ojeda's show at International Visions Gallery on Connecticut Avenue NW was no ordinary event.

Ojeda, 62, had died June 6, two days before the opening, from complications following lung surgery. His family and friends were still in shock as they poured into the gallery on opening night, carrying white flowers and turning the gallery's guest log into a book of condolence.

Ojeda's 17-year-old son, Nicolas, a high school senior, wearing a rakish white cap, welcomed the crowd and bravely spoke on his father's behalf.

"I know if Naúl  were here, he'd thank my mother for always being there for him," said the young man as Philomena Ojeda stifled tears. "And now we can look at these paintings," Nicolas said, sweeping his hand around the room. "They are funny, colorful and wild, just like him."

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