Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie.
Hi Leslie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey has been anything but traditional. I spent more than 20 years building a successful career as an engineer and program manager in the aerospace and defense industry, working on advanced radar systems and leading complex technical programs. While I enjoyed the challenges and accomplishments of that career, art had always been a part of who I was.
For years, I created art on the side while balancing a demanding corporate career and raising a family. Eventually, I reached a point where I wanted to invest more of my time and energy into my passion for creativity and community. In 2023, I took a leap of faith and opened Epiphany Gallery in Downtown Garland.
As the first Black-owned art gallery in Garland, my vision was to create more than just a place to display artwork. I wanted to build a welcoming space where artists, collectors, students, and community members could connect, learn, and be inspired. Since opening, the gallery has hosted exhibitions featuring artists from diverse backgrounds, art classes for children and adults, community events, workshops, cultural celebrations, and private gatherings.
What began as a dream has grown into a thriving creative hub and gathering place within Garland’s Cultural Arts District. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in various community leadership roles, support emerging artists, mentor young people, and advocate for the arts as a tool for education, economic development, and community building.
Looking back, every chapter of my journey—from engineering to entrepreneurship—has prepared me for this work. Engineering taught me problem-solving, strategic thinking, and perseverance. Art taught me creativity, empathy, and connection. Today, I have the privilege of combining both as I continue to grow Epiphany Gallery and create opportunities for others to experience the transformative power of art.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, but the challenges have been some of my greatest teachers.
One of the biggest hurdles was leaving the security of a successful 20-year career in engineering and program management to pursue entrepreneurship. In the corporate world, there are established systems, teams, and resources. As a business owner, I became responsible for every aspect of the operation—from marketing and finances to programming, facility management, and customer service.
Opening Epiphany Gallery, an art gallery and event center in Downtown Garland, came with its own unique challenges. Many people see the finished product—a beautiful exhibit, a successful event, or a packed workshop—but they don’t always see the work behind the scenes. Managing exhibitions, supporting artists, booking private events, teaching classes, building community partnerships, and maintaining a physical space all require significant time, energy, and planning.
One of the ongoing challenges has been building awareness. As both a gallery and event venue, we serve multiple audiences. We want people to think of Epiphany Gallery not only as a place to experience art, but also as a place to celebrate milestones, host meetings, attend classes, and connect with the community. Educating the public about everything we offer has required persistence and consistency.
As the first Black-owned art gallery in Garland, I have also felt a responsibility to create opportunities for artists whose voices and perspectives are not always represented. Building something new takes patience, especially when you’re introducing a concept that many people have never experienced before.
There have certainly been moments when attendance was lower than expected, events didn’t go exactly as planned, or I questioned whether I was doing enough. However, each challenge has helped me grow as a leader and business owner. I’ve learned that success is built through relationships, adaptability, and showing up consistently, even when the results are not immediate.
Looking back, every obstacle has reinforced my purpose. Epiphany Gallery is more than a business; it is a creative gathering place where art, culture, education, and community come together. Being able to create that space makes every challenge worthwhile.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a visual artist and the owner of Epiphany Gallery, an art gallery and event center in Downtown Garland. Through exhibitions, classes, community programs, and private events, I strive to create meaningful experiences that bring people together through art.
What I am most proud of is creating a space where the community gathers. One of my favorite examples was hosting the community event where residents helped apply pieces to the permanent mosaic installation near The Atrium in Downtown Garland. The mosaic honors The Flats, a once-thriving African American community that played an important role in Garland’s history.
I also enjoy partnering with the City of Garland to provide hands-on art activities during major downtown events. There is something special about watching people of all ages connect through creativity.
Over the years, I have been honored to receive recognition from the City of Garland and several community organizations, but the greatest reward is seeing people walk through our doors, make connections, discover local artists, and feel like they belong.
How do you define success?
I define success by the impact we have on the people we serve. Of course, business growth is important, but what matters most to me is when people have such a positive experience that they return, tell their friends and family about us, and trust us with future events and experiences.
One of the greatest compliments I can receive is a repeat customer. Whether someone attends an art exhibit, takes a class, purchases artwork, or hosts an event at Epiphany Gallery, I want them to leave feeling valued and inspired. When they come back or recommend us to others, it tells me we created something meaningful.
Success is also about trust. Many people choose Epiphany Gallery to celebrate some of life’s most important moments, and I never take that responsibility lightly. Knowing that people trust us to help create memorable experiences for their families, friends, and organizations is a measure of success that means more to me than any award or recognition.
Pricing:
- Admission to most art exhibits is free and open to the public.
- Art classes and workshops vary by program.
- Epiphany Gallery is available for private events, meetings, celebrations, and corporate gatherings.
- Additional information about exhibits, classes, artwork, and event rentals can be found at EpiphanyGallery.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.EpiphanyGallery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epiphanyartgallery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555365192810
