The artworks of 10-year-old Martin Manrique, who was found dead with his family in their Davidson home, will be showcased at the Sydney special needs school he attended.
The severely autistic boy, described as a “prolific painter and a very gifted artist”, attended St Lucy’s School in Wahroonga, with his 11-year-old sister Elisa, who was also severely autistic.
The bodies of Elisa and Martin and their parents Fernando Manrique, 44, and 43-year-old Maria Lutz were found in their home at Davidson, in Sydney’s northern beaches, on Monday (October 17). Police are still investigating what appears to be a murder-suicide by gassing.
The school held prayer services for both Martin and Elisa, and their parents, this week and it has announced that it will hold an exhibition of Martin’s paintings and drawings before the end of this school term.
“Art is one of the ways they help the kids express themselves,” Catholic Education Commission NSW spokesman Jim Hanna told AAP on Friday.
Deputy principal Susan Jones said Martin’s personality shone through his art. “Martin loved nothing more than a cuddle,” she told the local paper, the Hornsby Advocate.
“But his passion for animals shone through each and every day. He was a prolific painter and a very gifted artist – that was how he communicated, through his art.
“Martin was a cheeky and funny little boy.”
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
