Southern California is filled with wonders. Some of them need no introduction, while others are not as well-known, yet absolutely charming. If this marvelous summer weather has you yearning to explore places off the beaten path, may we guide you to:
CALIFORNIA SCENARIO
Isamui Noguchi’s sculpture garden “California Scenario” I 611 Anton I Costa Mesa, CA 92626 I Photography by Kathryn Poindexter | KCET
Also known as Noguchi Garden, California Scenario is an immersive work of land art, situated on 1.6 acres and accessible to public. At first glance, it seems an otherworldly landscape, yet a closer look reveals the intention of its design – the sculptural forms refer to geographical characteristics in California, incorporating indigenous plants and materials, and inviting us to consider the human effect on environment and ecology.
California Scenario was commissioned by Henry Segerstrom, an heir to a fortune built on agriculture and an avid patron of the arts. Segerstrom, a friend of Isamu Noguchi, approached him with the idea for the work in 1980. Noguchi, an eminent and widely regarded sculptor late in his career, had also loved designing stage sets for his contemporaries, modern dancers and choreographers, such as Martha Graham and Merce Cunningham – and California Scenario became just the platform where he was able to fully realize the sculptural and performative potential of his practice.
Isamui Noguchi’s sculpture garden “California Scenario” I 611 Anton I Costa Mesa, CA 92626 I Photography by Kathryn Poindexter | KCET
Surrounded by angular sculptural objects and organic forms – the centerpiece of the garden is The Spirit of the Lima Bean, honoring the Segerstorm family contribution to California landscape – each visitor can’t help but become a part of the work as one navigates across 6 elements of California Scenario, “Forest Walk,” “Land Use,” “Desert Land,” “Water Source,” “Water Use” and “Energy Fountain.”
A visit to California Scenario is an unforgettable experience, a perfect day trip with friends and family. Find out more about it here, and head over to KCET for an in-depth analysis of the work.
California Scenario | 611 Anton I Costa Mesa, CA 92626
