Fernando Higueras. (Who is eager to become, as soon as possible, Ferran Figueres) Architect. Madrid, 1930, 2008

I have followed Oscar’s career with mingled joy and surprise ever since I first met him years ago at the Architecture Criticism sessions run by Carlos de Miguel, at which he was the youngest of us all, followed by Ricardo Bofill. Despite the fact that he was one of those who talked most, time has borne out his talent. Ricardo and myself were the quietest, through shyness. / The phrase I suggest - Renaissance Man - says it all about a guy like Oscar - architect, painter, design producer and designer of just about anything, and so on and so forth - not to mention the last three books he has written, which I enjoyed immensely - for their readability, clarity and educational value. / Others are better qualified to chronicle his multiple talents. Suffice to say that they amply justify my praise for his wide-ranging activity. An academic once referred to me as the country’s most ignorant and cultivated architect, and in his Conde Duque de Madrid lecture on 13 April, 1999, “Ricardito” said that “in Spain we had the best and most unexploited architect: Fernando Higueras”, an opinion which I share unreservedly, though I must add, since Spain is not deserving of me, my aim is to be at least a sort of Catalan consort, with a little luck. / I just can’t restrain this false immodesty which my massive ego thrives on. Among other reasons, of course, it serves to heighten, if possible, my opinion of Oscar. My friend, continue as you are, don’t change; because the way you’re going just cannot be improved on.