Tempi Design Studio Handcrafted Originals
Unique Equestrian Treasures and more ....
We Design Keepsakes
Creative and Artistic would only begin to describe the forces behind the Tempi label. In addition we add the love of horses...
Born of an Engineer in Naval Architecture and an award winning Artist, E. Catherine Marie (ECM) dabbled in various art mediums from an early age. As a young teen, she discovered metal-smithing, soldering and casting. This dexterous art launched her into a 2 and 1/2 decade dental career, where 'custom order' was the daily 'task'. Parallel studies were completed at the GIA (Gemological Institute of America, Carlsbad, CA) in Platinum Fundamentals and Counter Sketch Design. ECM also studied and produced Theorem Painting under the guidance of a Guild Member of the Historical Society of Early American Decoration (www.hsead.org). She enjoyed many artistic mediums and a variety of items were created over the years. Creativity was always the theme.
Retiring from dentistry in 2001, ECM spent the next year in England, on hiatus, pursuing beloved equestrian studies. Internationally recognized certifications in Horse Care and Riding were completed (British Horse Society). Upon returning stateside, a storage unit of personal items was emptied, and ECM relocated to Virginia. Retained dental equipment was put back into use, and those creative hands went back to work. Simultaneously, Grandfather's piece was handed down, and the birth of Tempi Design Studio was inspired and commenced.*
Her love of horses was in the stars, literally. ECM was born in the Chinese "Year of the Horse". As a child, she was only able to admire them from afar, with intermitent riding, joining a childhood friend. ECM had to wait until she could afford her own horse, as an adult. She also studied abroad in the "Year of the Horse". It seems only fitting that, now, her love of horses and her love of creating in metal arts is combined.
Founder, E. Catherine Marie, had a former career in dentistry. Working under a microscope in fractions of millimeters, all dental work was custom made. First the article was conceived in wax, then carefully cast in gold. Next, the piece was hand finished to a precision fit under 10x magnification. Perfection was last, guaranteed by X-ray, for proof of fit.
Now, to apply this meticulous process to designs at Tempi, our capability to produce beautifully executed equine delights, is second nature. Captivating pieces in silver and gold are enhanced by the textures and colors from mother earth. We include gems rarely seen with such art.
The resulting Tempi Design pieces flatter your neckline, your hands, your earlobes, in casual elegance and stately presence. For any occasion, your signature piece awaits. We invite you to explore further, as we explain the creation process. Finally, view the launch of Tempi Design Studio and the stunning adornments waiting for you.
From the signature line of the 'Pharaoh's Horses Medallion Series' to the 'Fox Series' to the various horse disciplines, pet and animal series, our focus is to keep 'em coming! Once a series is ready, a supplemental catalog will be issued and available online for viewing. Stay tuned!!
Our new Dressage Horse '09
very dimensional !!
Spring 2011
Hunter Jumper Driving
Blue Heron Running Fox with Bit
It's all about the detail!
You don't have to love horses to love Tempi !
