Meet Sonia Zammel-Rogers | business owner & Art teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sonia Zammel-Rogers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sonia, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
t its core, Oops! Art Happens is a mission to democratize creativity. I believe that when art was first discovered, there was no manual; every artist simply found their own unique way to create. Because of that, I don’t believe art requires rigid instruction it requires an artistic spirit willing to take risks. Our studio serves as a space where people can de-stress, reconnect with their inner artist, and find a community of like-minded souls. Watching someone move from “I can’t paint” to “I just created this” is a transformation of confidence that they carry far beyond our walls.

As a woman who immigrated from Tunisia, I feel a deep responsibility to foster an atmosphere of radical acceptance. My background drives me to ensure that every person who walks through our doors feels their differences are embraced, not just tolerated. We put this into action through specialized programming, including LGBTQ+ workshops and our upcoming series dedicated to African Art. We also believe in the power of a “local-first” economy; whenever we host a workshop, we collaborate with neighborhood coffee shops and caterers to ensure our success supports the entire community. For us, social impact means proving that when you provide the right tools and a supportive environment, the sky is truly the limit for everyone.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At Oops! Art Happens, our philosophy is rooted in the wisdom of Bob Ross: there are no mistakes, only happy accidents. I believe art isn’t about rigid rules; it’s about silencing the inner critic to let the inner artist speak. When you walk into our studio, I want you to feel more than just “welcome” I want you to feel loved, accepted, and celebrated for your differences. We aren’t just a business; we are a sanctuary where people come to make fun, make art, and make friends.

My professional journey was anything but easy. As an immigrant, I faced a season where I lost my self-confidence while struggling to find my footing in a new country. I was on the verge of giving up on my dreams until my husband stepped in. He told me, “Follow your dream; together, we will make it happen.” I began saving every penny for rent and materials, choosing to silence the voices that said it was “too hard to start a business in America.” I chose the risk over the fear.

The road grew even more challenging when I faced a high-risk pregnancy right as the business launched. Physically, I was struggling, and the fear of failure loomed large. But once again, the wonderful man I married stood by my side. While I taught him the artistry, he taught me Photoshop and digital marketing. On the days when morning sickness or back pain became too much, he stepped in to lead the workshops himself.

My proudest moments aren’t found in a ledger, but in the eyes of my students. I’ll never forget a four-year-old named Steven who looked up from his painting and told me he wanted to be “just like me” when he grew up. In that moment, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be. If someone sees our logo halfway across the world, I want them to realize that the sky is the limit. You don’t need someone to “teach” you how to be creative you just need someone to hand you the tools and show you that your potential is infinite.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were in town, we’d start our mornings at Mustard Bagel it is, by far, the best bagel spot in the city and the perfect fuel for a busy day. Of course, no trip is complete without the Oops! Art Happens experience. I’d bring them into the studio for our signature candle-making workshop; there’s something so unique and soulful about pouring your own scent while surrounded by beautiful music and that unmistakable “art vibe” we’ve cultivated.

For the foodies, my “must-eat” list is a tour of the best flavors in the area. We’d go to Uovo for incredible handmade pasta overlooking the Marina, followed by a bowl of my favorite ramen at Venice Ramen. For something truly authentic, we’d hit Lupita’s Tacos, a family-owned stand where the seafood tacos are elite, and they treat you like you’ve been part of the family for years. While I’m not typically an evening person, I’d have to take them to Hinano Cafe in Venice it’s that quintessential local bar where you always bump into friends, even when you haven’t planned it.

To soak up the California sun, we’d hop on bikes for a ride from Marina del Rey all the way to Manhattan Beach; it’s my favorite way to clear my head. As a huge animal and nature lover, a trip to The Reptile Zoo is a non-negotiable I love seeing how much care and respect they have for those wonderful creatures. We’d round out the week with the iconic LA sights: a stroll through The Grove, a visit to the immersive Cosm, and a photo op under the Urban Lights at LACMA. It’s the perfect blend of local heart and big-city magic.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
While my hands have always been stained with paint, it was my husband who provided the canvas for my business to actually exist. For years, art was something I did within the four walls of our home it was my quiet passion. But he saw something in my work that I hadn’t yet dared to claim for myself. If I’m standing here today as a business owner, it’s because he refused to let my talent stay hidden. He didn’t just give me a ‘push’; he gave me the courage to turn a private joy into Oops! Art Happens. This shoutout belongs entirely to him my partner in life and the silent architect of my success

Website: https://www.oopsarthappens.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oops_art_happens/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576340830850

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/oops-art-happens-culver-city?osq=Oops!+Art+Happens