December 2026 Artisan of the Month: John Mutch
The Reboli Center for Art and History is delighted to feature jewelry designer John Mutch as our December 2026 Artisan of the Month! A longtime Port Jefferson artist, entrepreneur, and curator of unique treasures, John has spent decades sharing his passion for jewelry, design, and craftsmanship with the community and beyond.
John is the founder of the beloved Port Jefferson boutique, Earring Tabú, established in 1989. What began as a desire to put down roots while continuing to pursue his love of creating and discovering distinctive jewelry eventually grew into a destination for exceptional pieces from local artists and makers around the world. Interestingly enough, the boutique's beginnings were also inspired by fatherhood. As John shared in a past interview with The Reboli Center, when his children reached school age, he decided to step away from the Florida art show circuit, which he had traveled from January through April each year. That decision marked the beginning of Earring Tabú.
Drawing on years of experience as a traveling artist, John developed a distinctive eye for design and curation. His journey took him from Columbus Avenue in Manhattan down the East Coast and all the way to the Florida Keys, exposing him to an eclectic range of artists, styles, and creative influences. He brought those experiences back to Port Jefferson, creating a shop that reflected his artistic sensibilities and appreciation for the unusual, the beautiful, and the handmade.
Although John had little traditional retail experience when he first opened Earring Tabú, he embraced the opportunity to create something entirely his own. As he once reflected, his retail experience had largely consisted of setting up a 10-by-10-foot tent at art shows. After years of living what he fondly described as a "nomadic life," he was ready to put down roots. More than two decades later, as his son graduated from college, John found himself ready to unfold that tent once again and return to the traveling artist lifestyle.
Today, John's creative journey has come full circle, with his passion for entrepreneurship and family continuing to shape his work. He has opened yet another shop in Port Jefferson, Gialos, alongside his son, Colin. Bringing another generation of Design and Artistry into the family business and continuing the tradition of sharing thoughtfully selected and meticulously crafted pieces with the community. Whether through his own designs, his carefully curated collections, or the artists he champions, John remains dedicated to celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
The Reboli Center is honored to recognize John Mutch as our December 2026 Artisan of the Month. We are grateful for his longstanding relationship with the Center and his continued support of local art and creative expression. Visitors are invited to explore John's specially curated collection, featuring unique jewelry and gifts perfect for the holiday season.
John's collection will be available for viewing and purchase at The Reboli Center throughout the month of December, while supplies last. The Center is free to visit, and no reservations are required during regular business hours. Be sure to ask about complimentary gift wrapping at checkout!
Join us in celebrating John Mutch and his many years of creativity, craftsmanship, and contributions to the Port Jefferson community.
