L.S. “Sam” Skaggs

Scripps Research — La Jolla, California

Portrait sculpture commemorating philanthropic leadership in biomedical research.

Portrait sculpture of philanthropist Sam Skaggs commissioned by Scripps Research, installed in the Beckman Building atrium in La Jolla, California.

L.S. “Sam” Skaggs
Scripps Research — La Jolla, California
Stainless steel, steel, automotive paint and granite
72 x 24 x 24 in

Overview

Commissioned by Scripps Research to mark the twentieth anniversary of the Skaggs Family Foundation’s transformative support of the institute, this portrait of L.S. “Sam” Skaggs was created as part of a broader institutional celebration of philanthropy and scientific advancement.

Sam and Aline Skaggs’ vision and sustained generosity helped establish the Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology and strengthened Scripps Research’s role as a global leader in biomedical science.

Installed in the atrium lobby of the Beckman Building on the institute’s La Jolla campus, the sculpture serves as a lasting expression of gratitude and a visible acknowledgment of the Skaggs family’s enduring commitment to scientific discovery.

Project Details

Title: L.S. "Sam" Skaggs Sculpture
Location: Beckman Building Atrium, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California
Artist: Richard Becker
Materials: Stainless steel, steel, automotive paint and granite
Dimensions: 72 H × 24 W × 24 D in
Completion: 2016

Created at approximately 1.3 times life-size, the portrait was developed in consultation with institutional leadership to achieve both a faithful likeness and a presence appropriate to the Beckman Building’s architectural setting. The stainless steel surface reflects ambient light within the atrium while maintaining a restrained, contemporary character suited to the research environment.

The sculpture was unveiled during an anniversary celebration attended by members of the Skaggs family and leadership of Scripps Research.

Sam Skaggs bust installed in the Beckman Building atrium at Scripps Research in La Jolla.

Installation View

Inscription

"In honor of L.S. “Sam” Skaggs, and his wife Aline. Their extraordinary vision and generosity helped propel The Scripps Research Institute to the forefront of biomedical research and graduate education. The Skaggs family’s original gift, and their ongoing support, have advanced our understanding of basic science, enabled the training of hundreds of future research leaders, and contributed to the development of medicines benefiting millions. We are forever grateful for the Skaggs family’s commitment and contributions."

Unveiling event for the Sam Skaggs sculpture at Scripps Research with members of the Skaggs family and institutional leadership.

Unveiling event with the Skaggs Family Foundation and Scripps Reasearch Leadership

Credits

Artist: Richard Becker
Commissioned by: Scripps Research
Institutional Leadership & Coordination: Office of Philanthropy, Scripps Research
Strategic Design Partner: Patera Design
Foundry & Fabrication: MC3 Inc.; Pacific Waterjet

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