Cinnamon Cooney, The Art Sherpa, Obituary and Death – The Art World Mourns the Loss of a Bright Star
On December 10, 2024, the art world suffered a devastating loss with the sudden passing of Cinnamon Cooney, known to millions of her YouTube subscribers as The Art Sherpa. She was 54 years old at the time of her death, and while the cause of her passing remains unknown, her death has left her family, friends, followers, and the art community in deep sorrow and disbelief. Cooney’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to teaching, inspiring, and empowering countless individuals through the art of painting.
Born on July 1, 1970, Cinnamon Cooney’s love for art was a natural inheritance. She was the daughter of Ginger Cook, an acclaimed art teacher, and it was clear from a young age that Cinnamon had a special connection with art. From the moment she picked up a brush, her passion for creativity bloomed, and it was in her veins. Her career as an educator and artist was not merely a profession for Cooney—it was a calling, one that transformed the lives of many, both in the digital and real worlds. She was more than an art teacher; she was a beacon of joy and empowerment for her vast following.
Cinnamon Cooney’s journey to becoming one of the most recognized art instructors in the world was a combination of her upbringing and her unwavering commitment to sharing her artistic gift with others. Her YouTube channel, The Art Sherpa, became a sanctuary for aspiring artists who sought to learn and grow through accessible and step-by-step painting tutorials. With over 745,000 subscribers, Cinnamon created an online community of artists, educators, and creative souls who found not only lessons in technique but in encouragement, self-expression, and a sense of belonging.
The Art Sherpa channel was not just about painting—it was about connecting people. Cinnamon’s ability to simplify complex techniques and her infectious enthusiasm made her a beloved figure in the art world. What set her apart was her inclusive approach, ensuring that her lessons were accessible to artists of all levels. Her tutorials were patient, clear, and full of joy, which allowed anyone, regardless of experience or background, to pick up a paintbrush and feel empowered.
Cinnamon’s influence extended far beyond the confines of her YouTube channel. As an artist, she was known for her distinctive style, which included vibrant landscapes, florals, and abstracts that spoke to the heart. She taught students to not only see the world in a different light but to express their own unique perspective through color and form. Her work emphasized creativity, personal growth, and the joy of discovering one’s artistic voice.
What made Cinnamon Cooney particularly beloved by her audience was her genuine care and dedication to her community. She did not simply teach techniques; she mentored, encouraged, and uplifted her followers. Her warmth and empathy created a nurturing environment where students felt seen, supported, and celebrated. In a world where online interactions can often feel impersonal, Cinnamon fostered a deep sense of connection, often responding to comments, hosting live Q&A sessions, and engaging with fans on a personal level.
Her ability to make people feel valued and seen was one of the reasons she was so deeply admired. Cinnamon’s channel was more than just a place to learn painting; it became a virtual family for people from all walks of life. Her gentle nature and positive attitude resonated with people, and her fans cherished her not only for her skills as a painter and instructor but for her kind heart. Through her tutorials, Cinnamon gave people the courage to pursue their creative passions, to experiment, and to embrace the process of creating art as something beautiful and meaningful, no matter the outcome.
Cinnamon Cooney’s personal life was just as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. She was a devoted wife to her husband, John Cooney, with whom she shared a love story that spanned over 24 years. The couple had three children—Honey (20), Spider Jack (14), and Luna Bella (12)—and throughout her career, Cinnamon often spoke about the central role her family played in her life. She loved her children deeply and often expressed her pride in watching them grow and develop. Her husband and children were her greatest sources of inspiration and support, and she cherished the moments spent with them.
In the world of art, Cinnamon’s passing has left an irreplaceable void. For many, she was a guiding light and a source of constant support, offering free access to her expertise and fostering a thriving community of artists who shared a love for creativity and self-expression. Cinnamon’s work and legacy in the world of art education are far-reaching. Her influence will continue to inspire future generations of artists, whether they are beginners or seasoned painters, and her lessons will live on through the thousands of videos she created.
Her death has been felt profoundly by her followers and fellow artists, many of whom have turned to social media to express their sorrow and pay tribute to her legacy. Her fans have described her as a mentor, a friend, and a source of joy, and many have shared how her lessons helped them discover their own artistic talents or inspired them to pursue painting as a form of self-expression. Cinnamon was more than a teacher; she was a guide, a cheerleader, and a friend to many. Her online family has expressed deep sadness over her passing, and the art community is mourning the loss of someone who had such a powerful impact on their creative journeys.
As the news of Cinnamon Cooney’s passing continues to ripple through the art world, the collective grief is palpable. Yet, even in the wake of her death, her influence will not diminish. Cinnamon’s work, her videos, her messages of encouragement, and her approach to art will live on through the thousands of artists whose lives she touched. Whether she was teaching a simple technique or helping someone overcome their self-doubt, Cinnamon’s legacy is one of love, encouragement, and empowerment. Her contributions to the art world will continue to resonate, as will her message that art is a tool for healing, self-expression, and connection.
The art world has lost a bright star in Cinnamon Cooney, but her legacy will endure. Her passing marks the end of a chapter in the world of art education, but her influence will continue to inspire and uplift future generations of artists. Cinnamon’s love for her craft, her boundless enthusiasm, and her deep commitment to helping others will never be forgotten, and her lessons will continue to guide and inspire the countless artists who were touched by her warmth, her knowledge, and her spirit.
Her family, her students, and her fans will carry forward her teachings, her joyful spirit, and the belief that anyone can pick up a paintbrush and create something beautiful. Cinnamon Cooney’s passing is a profound loss, but the art community she created will continue to thrive as a testament to her passion, her dedication, and her incredible impact on the world of art education.
