Tributes to artist Sarah Cunningham who died after going missing in London

Tributes have been paid to an "incredible" artist who died earlier this week. Sarah Cunningham was reported missing after she was last seen in the early hours of Saturday, November 2, in London. However, a body was sadly found on Monday, November 4, during the search for the 31-year-old.

Sarah was born in Nottingham and had a studio in the city for many years at Backlit Gallery. Following the news of her death, the organisation says it is "truly devastated" by the news.

A spokesperson for the gallery said: "It’s with great sadness that we share news of Sarah Cunningham’s passing. Sarah was an incredible artist and a wonderful friend to Backlit.

"She had a studio here for many years, and it was a privilege to witness her painting grow and flourish. She was lovely in every way, always stopping for a chat before heading to her studio.

"Sarah, you were loved, respected, and will be missed greatly by the Nottingham art community and beyond. We are truly devastated. Sending our love to her family and friends."

Sarah was also a former student at Loughborough University where she studied fine art. Professor Rebecca Cain, Dean of Loughborough University’s School of Design and Creative Arts, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the death of Loughborough graduate and talented artist Sarah Cunningham. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.”