Hi Jennie, and welcome from Southern California. I have a similar background to yours. I started to quilt in the 90s because quilting was an important influence in wearable art then. The major difference I found is that precision is more important in quilting. Fit is the problem with garments, and one of the main reasons people give up. When you're designing and drafting your patterns, that's a major thought to keep in mind.
I never thought I'd prefer quilting, but with my art quilts I find more freedom in design, and more excitement discovering new techniques (using paint on fabric!). You'll find lots of help, inspiration and kindness here.