Commissioned by Henry Segerstrom in 1979 and completed in 1982, Isamu Noguchi’s California Scenario (also known in the Costa Mesa community as Noguchi Garden) is recognized as one of the country’s preeminent sculpture gardens and the most vital publicly accessible outdoor sculpture oasis in Southern California. Situated on 1.6 acres, the garden in its design symbolizes various geographical characteristics in California, incorporating indigenous plants and materials.
Six principal elements comprise California Scenario: “Forest Walk,” “Land Use,” “Desert Land,” “Water Source,” “Water Use” and “Energy Fountain.” However, the centerpiece of the garden is The Spirit of the Lima Bean, a sculpture of dramatic proportions, composed of 15 rust-colored granite rocks cut precisely to fit together. This sculpture was created in recognition of Henry Segerstrom’s friendship with Isamu Noguchi, and the Segerstrom family’s contribution to the agricultural heritage of Southern California.
Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa is open free to the public from 8 AM to midnight. Parking can be found in the parking structure on Avenue of the Arts.
For information regarding use of the garden, contact the Irvine Company Office Properties at 714.327.1374.
Take a 360 tour
