Meet Adéla and Barbora
In the heart of Czechia, two visionary artists, Adéla Zapletalová & Barbora Gábová, have redefined the art of food through fantastical and beautiful edible installations. From gingerbread talismans to butter candlesticks and edible accessories, their creations weave nature, storytelling, and craft into immersive experiences.
Driven by a commitment to natural materials and local ingredients, their work blurs the line between food and art. We reflect on their journey, creative partnership, and the enchanting interplay of tradition and innovation in their designs.
...
What is your background and how did you both arrive on this journey into edible installations?
B: We both come from artistic backgrounds—I studied landscape architecture for a while, while Adéla focused on photography at her studies. We've shared a love for nature, travel, adventure, and, of course, food for as long as we can remember.
Our journey into edible installations felt very natural, as it combines all the things we’re passionate about: art, creativity, nature, and the joy of creating experiences that connect these elements. For us, edible installations are the perfect intersection of the worlds and elements we love—they inspire us, bring us joy, and allow us to express our creativity in meaningful and immersive ways.
When did you decide to collaborate on AB and Collective?
A: Three years ago, I was attending an artist residency in Prague while Barbora had just returned from Mexico after a long time abroad. Toward the end of the residency, we met for coffee, and within hours, we had brainstormed an idea for an exhibition about food. A week later, Vesna, a one-day edible exhibition, was born—and devoured. That moment shaped the future of our work.
We realized we shared a similar view of the world, with a focus on dialogue, details, materials, and the connection to nature. We’re fascinated by the stories behind ingredients and love constructing new ones. AB is a mix of us both— my speed and Bara’s patience —coming together in a shared visual language.
...
Adéla wears the Banda Shirt in Iris Blue.
If you were to host a dream Christmas party, what would it look like – from the food, to the ambiance, to the outfits?
A: I have three little children, and thanks to them, I can experience Christmas through their eyes. That’s the greatest magic of all. Take all the warm blankets out of the closet, place a hand-dyed tablecloth on the table, and give everyone a placemat with their hand-embroidered name.
Scatter fresh cranberries across the table. String orange peels and dried peas onto threads. Light lots of candles everywhere, and in the evening, watch sparklers glow in the dark. Throughout the day, there’s a subtle scent of honey from the cookies and frankincense in the air. No rushing, just being together.
B: Ideally, it would take place in a cozy house or cabin in the middle of nature, far from the noise of the city. During the day, we would all gather together to prepare and cook food and drinks, craft decorations from natural materials we’d found, and spend time simply enjoying each other's company. We’d sip on everyone’s favorite drink, dance, and share stories.
The table would absolutely have to feature houbovy kuba (muschroom dish I love) and Vánočka and many more. The ambiance would be simple and magical—lit by the warm glow of honey candles, filling the space with their sweet, natural scent.
...
...
What’s one thing you admire most about each other’s style or approach to design?
B: I absolutely admire Adéla’s passion for everything she does. Her genuine love for life and the way she approaches every situation with such enthusiasm is truly inspiring to me. She approaches people, projects, and challenges with great humility and care, and yet, at the same time, she brings this wild, energetic creativity into everything she touches.
It’s a rare and beautiful balance that she carries effortlessly, and it radiates into her design work and the way she connects with others.
A: Bara has the ability to embrace the whole world with open arms. She exudes freedom on so many levels, which is incredibly inspiring. Her unique style shines through everything she does—whether she’s dancing, crocheting, or shaping a mask out of dough.
Bara is connected to nature like no one else I know. It’s one of her essences, deeply intertwined with her work, and it’s fundamental to her. She also has an extraordinary eye for detail.
...
Barbora wears the Tatiana Gillet in Grey & Kleo Trousers in Black.
...
What are your top tips for creating the perfect Christmas table setting?
A: I love it when the Christmas table is long and full. My mom always scattered nuts or lychees across the table. Under each plate, we’d place a carp scale for good luck in the coming year. The scent of Christmas incense and pine needles fills the air.
In contrast to the white snow outside, I adore deep red tones. Tie ribbons onto branches and hang them above the table. Light the candles. Open the last advent pouch at the table and find a personal letter inside, filled with kind and heartfelt words.
B: I believe that less is more when it comes to creating the perfect Christmas table setting. I’d love to have a patchwork tablecloth made from leftover fabric pieces, paired with placemats in a similar style.
A table full of candles and decorations made from natural materials like fruits would add a warm and festive touch. I’d also light a Christmas incense burner to fill the air with its comforting scent to have a good and clean energy at home, around table.
...
...
Would you consider yourselves more traditional, or contemporary?
A: I’m drawn to both worlds and like to pick the best from each, but I would say I lean more toward tradition.
B: Just like Adéla, I love blending both traditional and contemporary styles. I adore traditions, but I like adding my own personal touch and a fresh perspective to them. I’m not a fan of being put into any particular category or limitations—it’s all about creating something unique and meaningful by combining the old with the new.
What’s one dish you can’t live without during the holiday season?
B: Vánočka (sweet braided bread).
A: Eggnog!
...
...
The incredible table setting pictured was created for Britt Sisseck by Adela and Barbora. Other imagery, including their exquisite bread bags, was supplied.
You can see more of Adela and Barbora's beautiful work here.