Meet The Member - Deepa Ojha Khakurel, Make Art Studio
Today we’re sitting down for an interview with Deepa to learn more about Make Art Studio.
Tell us more about you and your business! We’d love to know about your business today and the story of how you got here.
Make Art Studio is rooted in a very personal journey.
Art has always been part of my life, and my dad was the one who introduced me to it. He supported my interest in painting from a young age and believed in my creative path. After he passed away, art became something even more meaningful. It was a way to stay connected to him and to myself.
For a period of time, I stepped into web design and corporate work. It was stable and practical, but it was not where my heart was. After becoming a mom of two boys, I felt a strong pull back to art. Watching my children explore freely, create without fear, and express themselves so honestly reminded me why creativity matters.
What began as small paint gatherings slowly grew into something bigger. Families were looking for a space where their children could explore art without pressure. Adults wanted a place to reconnect with creativity in a supportive environment.
Today, Make Art Studio is a process-based art studio in Edmonton offering classes for toddlers, youth, and adults. It is a space built on creativity, resilience, and the belief that everyone deserves room to create and grow.
Let’s dive more into your business. What products/services do you offer? What do you do for your clients that sets you apart?
Make Art Studio offers process-based art classes and creative experiences for toddlers, children, youth, and adults in Edmonton.
For ages 1–2, we offer Tiny Art Play, a sensory-focused class where caregivers and toddlers explore color, texture, and movement together. For ages 3–5, our preschool classes introduce foundational techniques while encouraging independence and confidence. Youth programs focus on skill development in drawing, painting, mixed media, and realism. We also offer adult painting classes, themed workshops, private events, birthday parties, and community collaborations. In addition, we host creative networking events and corporate art experiences that blend connection with creativity.
What sets Make Art Studio apart is our strong emphasis on process over perfection. We do not focus on copying a final image. Instead, we teach technique, encourage experimentation, and give students the freedom to make creative decisions. Children are guided but not controlled. Youth learn structure while still developing their own artistic voice. Adults are supported in reconnecting with creativity without pressure.
Our classes are intentionally small to allow for meaningful interaction and individual guidance. Every program is designed to build confidence, resilience, and independent thinking through art.
What is your favourite part of what you do?
My favourite part is watching confidence grow in real time.
There is always a moment when someone hesitates, whether it is a child unsure about a brushstroke or an adult saying they are not creative. Then they take the risk, try it anyway, and something shifts. You can see the pride immediately.
I love creating a space where people feel safe to experiment without fear of being wrong. Seeing students surprise themselves and realize they are capable is the most rewarding part of what I do.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
One of my biggest challenges was building the studio from the ground up while balancing motherhood and financial uncertainty. In the beginning, I was doing everything myself, and growth felt slow at times.
What I learned is that consistency matters more than quick wins. Showing up, refining programs, listening to clients, and staying adaptable builds long term trust. I also learned that asking for help is part of strong leadership.
Progress is often gradual, but steady effort truly compounds.
Do you have a go-to motto or quote that inspires you?
“Create your own path.”
It reminds me that the journey does not have to look traditional to be meaningful. Building Make Art Studio did not follow a straight line, and neither does creativity. Staying consistent, being willing to adapt, and trusting steady effort has shaped both my art and my business.
That phrase grounds me whenever things feel uncertain.
Is there anything you'd like to share with the YBB Community?
Building a business is not always linear. There will be fast seasons and slow seasons, and both are part of growth.
Start before everything feels perfect. Stay consistent, listen to your community, and stay rooted in your values. Collaboration and connection make the journey stronger.
Most importantly, create your own path.
Where can people find you to learn more?
We regularly share class updates, events, and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram, and all program details and registrations are available on our website.
Make Art Studio, 8743 53 Ave NW #2FL, Edmonton, AB
