Rumi Poetry Book Cover | Whirling Sufi Dervish Illustration

Hand-drawn illustrated book cover for Rumi poetry featuring a whirling Sufi dervish, symbolising divine love, movement, and spiritual transformation

Rumi — Poetry Collection (Illustrated Book Cover)

This illustrated book cover for a Rumi poetry collection centres on the image of a whirling Sufi dervish, a powerful symbol of spiritual devotion, movement, and divine love.

Concept and Symbolism

The whirling dervish represents the Sufi practice of turning as a form of meditation — a physical expression of surrender, love, and unity with the divine. I chose this motif to reflect the essence of Rumi’s poetry, where love is not static, but something lived, embodied, and in constant motion.

The circular movement of the figure echoes Rumi’s recurring themes: the turning of the soul, the letting go of ego, and the idea that through love we move closer to truth. Rather than illustrating a specific poem, the image acts as a visual metaphor for the emotional and spiritual journey found throughout Rumi’s work.

Hand-Drawn Process

The illustration was drawn entirely by hand, allowing expressive line work, layered texture, and natural variation. This approach was important to me, as Rumi’s poetry is deeply human and emotional rather than polished or mechanical. The hand-drawn quality reinforces the authenticity and warmth of the text.

Colour, Texture and Movement

The flowing garments of the dervish were designed to suggest motion and rhythm, mirroring the musicality of Rumi’s writing. Subtle textures and patterns were incorporated to add depth and a sense of timelessness, referencing traditional Islamic art while remaining contemporary.

The composition invites the reader into a moment of stillness within movement — much like Rumi’s poetry itself.

Intent

This cover was created to appeal to readers of poetry, spirituality, and classical literature. The aim was to create a book cover that communicates devotion, transformation, and love without relying on literal narrative, allowing readers to connect emotionally before turning the first page.