We had the good fortune of connecting with Sladjana Ahmetovic and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sladjana, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Thank you so much for the question and the interest. Originally, I am from Bosnia & Hercegovina. My family and I migrated here in the 90’s as refugees. This plays a big role in who I am, as it structured my work ethic and drive for life. I am a dreamer, who isn’t afraid to risk a little. My upbringing has allowed my perspective to be rooted in taking risks to not waste the opportunity to be in pursuit of my happiness.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Pretty Dope Paintings is a mobile art studio I started in 2021. We host guided art classes for all skill levels. We bring the studio to you for your events. Our most popular classes are called Puff & Paint, where we mix art with cannabis. These classes are hosted every second Saturday of the month in Mesa. During the class the participants bring their own cannabis and we indulge in the creative benefit from it, to create a painting. Everyone paints the same concept, however everyone can customize theirs the way they like. The path to making the idea come to life wasn’t easy. Every career has it’s own challenges. Since I am still a full time employee at a financial institution, my challenges are time constraints. Overcoming challenges requires us to be problem solvers. Be prepared to solve problems and not allow it to affect your performance. Be receptive to constructive criticism, hearing no, and competitors. Biggest lesson I learned is that you really need to have faith in yourself, and not be phased by outside noise. Some people can’t see your vision, and that’s okay. Still believe in yourself.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh, this is an interesting question. Well, I’d say to take them to Sedona for sure! I love going there for a little day trip to hike, try local food and scenery. The art district in downtown Phoenix is a must, show them the murals around town that have a great representation of the diversity the city has to offer and showcase the local artist. Downtown Phoenix has multiple options for great cuisine and entertainment. Tempe Townlake is also a great place to visit for a variety of shops, entertainment and food! There’s something here for everyone!
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?
I agree, we wouldn’t be who we are without the people in it. There are many people I’d love to recognize, because it does take a village! Jukebox deserves recognition, they are a large part of bringing the community together, from the dance classes to supporting small businesses like myself. I want to thank all the vendors, artists, photographers, repeat customers, suppliers and magazines like yourself. Also, Phoenix New Times played a huge role in getting the word out about what I do and recognizing the services provided by Pretty Dope Paintings. All the artists that have shared their knowledge with me of their journey. The customers who share their experience with their loved ones, I see your tags, and posts and appreciate all of them! Thank you to anyone who played any role in my journey!
Website: www.prettydopepaintings.com
Instagram: @prettydopepaintings