Penguin Archive Brief: Illustrating the Book Cover for ‘Animal Farm’

I did a self-initiated project that allowed me to combine my love for illustration with a deep appreciation for literature. I created a Penguin archive book cover brief for George Orwell’s iconic novel, Animal Farm, with a unique perspective that pays homage to Stalin’s Communist Russia.

The book cover project began with a focus on the essence of Animal Farm—a satirical tale that reflects the events leading up to the Russian Revolution and the rise of totalitarianism. I wanted the cover to convey the underlying message of the book while capturing the attention of potential readers. One of the most striking elements I decided to incorporate was the poem "Beasts of England." This poem, which symbolizes the hope for a better future for the animals, becomes increasingly meaningful as the story unfolds. To visually represent the theme of anarchy and the corruption of ideals, I chose to rip the poem and integrate those torn pieces into the design by hand writing the torn up poem. I also wrote some words back to front. This illustrates the destruction of hope and the idealism that initially inspired the rebellion, emphasizing the stark contrast between the dream of equality and the reality of oppression. To create a strong visual impact, I used a color palette dominated by deep reds and gays, reminiscent of Soviet propaganda art. This choice was intentional to create a sense of foreboding while also paying homage to the historical context that influenced Orwell’s work. I experimented with other colours also.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was the opportunity to reflect on how art can communicate complex ideas. The symbolism I incorporated into the cover is designed to spark curiosity and conversation among viewers, encouraging them to think critically about the themes of Animal Farm and their relevance in today’s society. As I worked on the illustrations, I found myself immersed in the narrative and its broader implications. This project became more than just a cover design; it transformed into a personal exploration of creative expression through historical commentary. I am excited to share the final product and hope it resonates with both fans of the book and new readers alike. It’s a reminder that literature holds the power to challenge our perspectives and provoke thought—something I aimed to achieve through my illustrations.