Henry T. Segerstrom Centennial 2023

HENRY SEGERSTROM MADE a profound difference in the worlds of business and culture, setting the highest standards as a businessman, philanthropist, and arts patron.

He believed wholeheartedly in the incomparable power of the arts. This conviction, coupled with his constant drive for excellence, inspired him in creating a cosmopolitan center on what was once farmland in the heart of Orange County. South Coast Plaza led the way, opening in 1967. For Henry, this was just the beginning of his vision, which also included ambitious plans to make the arts central to the area.

In 1979 he commissioned the renowned artist Isamu Noguchi to create a 1.6-acre sculpture garden. Named California Scenario, the garden is widely recognized as one of Noguchi’s most important and quickly became one of the most significant public gardens in Southern California upon its opening in 1982. Other artists including Richard Serra, Richard Lippold, Joan Miró, Henry Moore, Jean Dubuffet, and Aiko Miyawaki were engaged over the years to add to this iconic work, creating a unique collection of publicly accessible works of art.

Henry Segerstrom’s ongoing leadership and philanthropy led to the development of a world-renowned multidisciplinary arts complex on land donated by the Segerstrom family. South Coast Repertory set the stage, opening in 1978. Orange County Performing Arts Center opened in 1986. Both organizations expanded on additional land donated by the Segerstrom

Family to create Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall opened in 2006 along with Samueli Theater. The vision was completed this past year with the opening of the Orange County Museum of Art on the campus.

Today, South Coast Plaza and Segerstrom Center for the Arts stand as an enduring testament to Henry Segerstrom’s bold vision, constant drive for excellence, and dedication to giving back.

Elizabeth Segerstrom is proud to honor this legacy in celebrating the Henry T. Segerstrom Centennial.