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From Architecture to Illustration: Barbora Keherová’s Creative Shift in Storytelling and Style

By Lana

An illustrator with a background in architecture, Barbora Keherová brings structure, emotion and storytelling together through her colourful, playful style. Based in Vienna, she draws inspiration from the people around her, shifting moods, and the built environment—infusing each illustration with meaning beyond the surface.

Why did you decide to take up your creative trade?

My creative journey began before I can even remember, but the real turning point came when I decided to leave my career in architecture and fully dive into illustration.

How do you get past creative blocks?

I step away from everything and go for a walk in nature. Alternatively, I switch to one of my hobbies—changing the activity always helps me gain a fresh perspective.

Vibrant illustration featuring a lively collage of iconic modernist and contemporary architectural landmarks, reimagined in a playful, graphic style. Figures are scattered throughout—watering plants, studying blueprints, swimming, lounging, and constructing buildings—adding energy and humour to the scene. Bold colours, geometric shapes, and textured shading create a dynamic cityscape blending famous structures such as the Bauhaus, the Guggenheim Museum, and Le Corbusier’s Villa Savoye.

What is your creative process?

My creative process usually starts with a lot of loose thinking—sketching ideas, collecting references, and letting thoughts simmer a bit before diving in. Once I find a visual or concept that clicks, I begin refining the composition and mood. I like to leave space for play and spontaneity along the way, but I also enjoy the structure of polishing details toward the end. Switching between analogue and digital tools helps me keep the work fresh and intuitive.

Where do you look for inspiration?

I find inspiration everywhere as soon as I step outside—flea markets, cafés, nature. But to be less poetic: when I need something fast, it’s Pinterest. Always has been, always will be. 😀

What are you reading or listening to right now?

I’m reading Steinbeck – The Grapes of Wrath. I love reading the classics. And listening? Lately, it’s just the Altons on repeat.

Humorous and exaggerated illustration of an angry shopping bag brought to life with bulging eyes, clenched teeth, and muscular yellow arms and legs. The bag is filled with groceries including bread, milk, a radish, and cartons, while one arm tightly grips a distressed shopper, causing coins and banknotes to fall. Set against a bold blue background, the image satirically conveys the pressures of rising inflation and the overwhelming cost of everyday essentials.

How do you switch off?

The best way for me to fully switch off is to go for a hike or a walk in nature. It’s incredibly grounding, and the beauty around me helps me truly forget about everything else.

 

A big thank you to Barbora Keherová for contributing to our series of creative conversations with industry experts.

further reading

Laurel Molly Parfitt’s Journey Through Illustration and Community

From Everyday Moments to Meaningful Lines: Sophie Parsons’ Journey to Illustration

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