About me

Hi! My name is Deb, and I'm the owner and creative mind behind Johnny's Red Rock Designs.

I guess you could say creativity has always been in my blood!

I grew up as a third-generation picture framer, surrounded by artists. My grandparents and my mother were all artists, so from a very early age, I was immersed in a world of imagination, craftsmanship, and beautiful creations. I learned that there's something truly special about taking an idea, working with your eyes and hands, and watching it become something real.

My love of photography began in the fifth grade, thanks to a wonderful teacher named Mr. Smith, who taught a photography class at my elementary school. This was back in the days of manual cameras, black-and-white 35mm film, and actual darkrooms! My first camera was a Pentax K1000, and we were fortunate enough to have a makeshift darkroom in an old school closet.

We learned everything from taking photographs to developing film and making our own enlargements. That experience sparked a lifelong love of capturing the world through a camera lens. Although I've traded film and darkroom chemicals for digital photography, the excitement of capturing something beautiful has never faded.

A Different Path, but Never Far from Creativity

Life has a way of taking us in unexpected directions.

Shortly after graduation, my grandmother suffered a stroke. That experience eventually influenced a change in my career path, and about ten years later, I returned to school and earned my associate degree in Occupational Therapy.

I spent nearly 30 years working in healthcare, a career that taught me so much about patience, determination, adaptability, and finding creative solutions to everyday challenges.

But even while working in healthcare, I never lost my desire to create.

Over the years, I continued exploring photography, woodworking, picture framing, laser engraving, resin art, and just about anything else that caught my imagination.

I've always loved the challenge of looking at an idea and asking myself, "Now, how am I going to make THAT?"

Sometimes the answer is simple. Other times, it takes a little experimenting, a few mistakes, and a whole lot of determination!

Finding My Way Back to Art

Like so many people, the challenges of recent years made me rethink what was most important in life.

After spending so many years in healthcare and being farther away from family than I wanted, I made some big changes. I began stepping back from healthcare and devoting more time and energy to the creative side of my life.

And that's where Johnny's Red Rock Designs really began to grow.

Today, my work includes original photography, woodworking, laser engraving, resin art, and UV printing, along with a variety of mixed-media creations. I love combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to bring new ideas to life.

Living in Sedona, Arizona, provides endless inspiration. From the magnificent red rocks and ever-changing desert skies to the rich history and character of the Southwest, there's always something that sparks another idea.

But my imagination doesn't stop at Sedona!

I'm equally drawn to mystical artwork, vintage and Art Nouveau designs, whimsical creations, steampunk, ocean-inspired pieces, and whatever else happens to catch my attention.

You'll find that variety reflected throughout my collections of magnets, bookmarks, journals, ornaments, keepsake boxes, and unique gifts.

Some pieces begin with my own photography, others with original artwork or a creative concept that evolves through a combination of artistic techniques and technology. Some are carefully handcrafted from start to finish, while others incorporate thoughtfully selected materials and components.

What ties everything together is my love of creating something a little different, something meaningful, and hopefully something that makes you smile.

I'm also fortunate to have had opportunities to share my work through local galleries and community events, meeting wonderful people who appreciate art, handcrafted pieces, and the stories behind them.

A New Chapter — Deb & Gary

In February 2025, my mother passed away unexpectedly, bringing another major change to our lives.

Today, my big brother Gary who has special needs and I are continuing the journey of Johnny's Red Rock Designs together. 

Gary takes his role in the business very seriously! He especially loves seeing where our packages are headed. And helps me cross off new states on our map.  Once I carefully pack and apply the shipping label, the two of us make our trip to the post office or UPS to send it on its way. He particularly loves the post because most can fit in the slot without him needing to do anything. We are still working on UPS where he has to go in to hand the package over, he's almost independent in this...almost! 

Because this is one of his favorite parts of the day, I've officially given him the title of Head of the Shipping Department! 😊

Together, we're carrying on our family's creative spirit, embracing new ideas, and looking forward to what the future holds.

Johnny's Red Rock Designs continues to grow and evolve, but at its heart, it's still about family, creativity, and the joy of making something special with our own hands.

Thank You for Being Here!

Whether you're looking for a little reminder of Sedona, a thoughtful gift for someone special, or simply something unique that catches your eye, I'm so glad you stopped by.

I truly appreciate everyone who takes the time to explore our creations and support our small business.

We're always working on something new, so be sure to check back often! You can also follow along on Facebook and Instagram for new designs, works in progress, and a peek at what we're creating next.

And if you ever have a question or there's something we can help you with, please don't hesitate to reach out.

As Joseph Campbell once said...

"Follow Your Bliss."

With appreciation,

Deb & Gary

Johnny's Red Rock Designs
Sedona, Arizona