Shop Business Stories: Marcella Kriebel Art + Illustration
Washington, DC–based watercolor artist and illustrator Marcella Kriebel creates vibrant, food-focused artwork that celebrates culture, community, and the stories we share around the table. Known for her expansive collection of art prints, stationery, home goods, and illustrated cookbooks—including Mi Comida Latina and Comida Cubana—Marcella brings her passion for connection into every piece she creates. From her studio and retail shop on the Brookland Arts Walk, she pairs creativity with purpose, partnering with local nonprofits like DC Central Kitchen to give back through annual community-driven projects.
Tell us about your business!
I'm Marcella Kriebel, a watercolor artist and illustrator specializing in artwork that celebrates food, culture. I create a variety of products, including over 200 different art prints, stationery, and home goods like kitchen towels. I've also authored and illustrated a few cookbooks, notably Mi Comida Latina and Comida Cubana. You can find my work at my retail shop on the Brookland Arts Walk in DC. A core part of my mission is giving back: I consistently partner with non-profits, such as DC Central Kitchen, by creating special items like my annual calendar and donating 100% of the profits to support their important work.
How long have you been in business?
13 years
What inspired you to start your business?
I'm aim to connect with people, and I found that food serves as a powerful bridge into different cultures and experiences.
What’s been your biggest challenge as a small business owner — and how did you overcome it?
As a small business owner, time management is a constant challenge because I wear so many different hats, and the list of things to do is endless. My strategy is to go beyond simple to-do lists by prioritizing tasks and blocking out dedicated time for critical items to ensure they are completed efficiently.
What’s something special about your neighborhood community or customers that keeps you motivated?
My favorite source of motivation is the deep sense of community I find both in D.C. It’s incredibly rewarding to see people enjoy my art—whether it’s one of my watercolor art prints or a kitchen towel—to share, celebrate, and preserve their own family traditions and stories through my art by gifting it to others. The direct feedback I get about how my work enhances a home or inspires a shared meal is what truly keeps me going.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a small business in DC?
My best advice is to always build multiple revenue streams into your business model. This way, if one area slows down seasonally or unexpectedly, you have the flexibility to pivot your focus and resources to another profitable avenue for a period of time. I have a retail shop, participate in art festivals, teach watercolor classes, offer commercial commission work, create public art and murals, for example.
Favorite thing about DC?
My absolute favorite thing about D.C. is its incredible diversity. I love that it's a meeting point for people from so many different backgrounds, which creates a truly unique and rich cultural landscape that constantly inspires my art.