Nicola Hooper is an Australian artist and printmaker whose practice examines the intersection of animal and human experiences. Central to her work is the concept of zoonoses - the transmission of diseases from animals to humans. Drawing on her own childhood experience of diabetes and the use of pork-derived insulin, Hooper explores the complexities of our often conflicted relationships with animals and how those relationships can embody empathy towards one another.  

The 2019 hand-coloured lithograph, ‘Love Potion’ pictures a teapot with a cat’s face pouring tea for two mice standing expectantly beneath it. At this fantastical tea party, Hooper solely hosts animals, showing the mice at ease amongst tea cups and platters. Hooper encourages her audience to interpret this story freely, adding a signature touch of playfulness to her take on a fairy tale scene. This print is rife with detail, carefully produced through a combination of hand-colouring and lithograph printing.    

Hooper has a Doctorate in Visual Arts and has been the recipient of several awards throughout her career. Some notable career highlights include being in the 2024/25 Gold Coast Triennial, and featuring as a finalist in the 2025 Kennedy Art Prize, 2024 Hadley’s Art Prize, 2023 Burnie Print Prize, 2024 & 2023 Brisbane Portrait Prize. Hooper’s work features in several private and public collections, including Logan Art Gallery, Griffith University, Onkaparinga Council and South Coast Regional Art Centre. 

For lovers of whimsical imagery, Hooper’s ‘Love Potion’ is a captivating find.  

Nicola HOOPER
'Love Potion' 2019
hand-coloured lithograph on paper
Image Size: 50 x 36 cm
Dimensions: 74 x 60 x 5 cm
Signed: Signed 'NH', dated, editioned and titled lower right corner.

Comes with Letter of Provenance

Condition: Excellent:

(c) The Artist or Assignee