From Cars to Canvases

From Cars to Canvases:
Joan Edwards' Journey into the Art World

Walk into Create Gallery and Frames, and you’ll find stunning art and handcrafted frames. What you won’t expect? One of the owners once led design quality at Tesla. For Joan Edwards, the shift from automotive innovation to fine art curation wasn’t a leap- it was a natural next step in a life shaped by aesthetics, precision, and a passion for meaningful design.

“After spending 33 years in the automotive industry, my transition to owning an art gallery and frame shop surprises many. But when you trace the path back to its roots, it feels like a natural progression, driven by a long-standing appreciation for aesthetics and design.

My career began in the world of automotive manufacturing as an OEM Supplier and evolved into a role as a Design Quality Engineer at a well-known automaker. I eventually became a Senior Manager for Design at Tesla. Throughout this time, I developed a keen eye for color, materials, and the overall aesthetics of vehicles, ensuring every component met the highest standards before production. My work required a deep understanding of subjective qualities—those elements you can’t easily measure but can feel intuitively.

Despite my success in the automotive field, the allure of art always lingered. I remember visiting a friend’s art gallery right after high school and being mesmerized by the thought of creating such a space. At the time, I assumed that the world of art was reserved for those with certain privileges or wealth, so I pursued what I considered a “real job” instead.

Throughout my career, I was fortunate to work alongside talented designers and traveled extensively, frequently visiting galleries and architectural landmarks across Europe, Dubai, and China. These experiences deepened my fascination with art and design. After retiring from Tesla, the idea of opening an art gallery resurfaced. This time, I felt ready to embrace it.

Meeting my husband, an accomplished artist, further cemented this new direction. Together, we decided to open a gallery combined with a framing shop, providing a space where art lovers and creators can connect and explore creativity. It’s a venture that unites my lifelong passion for design with my newfound love for the art world.

This transition from cars to canvases may seem drastic, but it’s rooted in a consistent theme: A dedication to beauty, detail, and the transformative power of design. As I look back, it’s clear that each step in my journey has been preparing me for this exciting new chapter in the world of art.”

Joan’s story is more than a career pivot- it’s a powerful reminder that passion doesn’t always follow a straight line. Her path reflects the very spirit of Create Gallery and Frames: Rooted in craftsmanship, built on bold vision, and shaped by a deep respect for beauty in all its forms.

Create Gallery and Frames is more than just a showcase- it's a gathering space for artists, collectors, and creatives alike. Whether you’re browsing fine art or customizing a frame, it invites you to slow down and experience beauty up close.

Visit Create Gallery and Frames to see Joan’s vision come to life—where design meets expression, and every piece tells a story.

Create Gallery and Frames

3520 W. Chinden Blvd. Garden City, ID. 83714

Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11AM-6PM

Follow us on our socials (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) @creategalleryandframes for artist news, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes content.