A Friend's Gift
RU Magazine
August 1, 2005
Catherine Van Noy
Mark Jamison (’89) and Slashtipher Coleman (90’) formed a lasting bond
during their years at Radford University. Sharing a love of art, music, and the
absurd, the two formed a jazz band, pondered the ways of the universe and
love, and worked to maintain a close association after graduation. Jamison
developed local notoriety as a neon artist, known by many as the Neon Man.
Coleman pursued writing, alternative health, and performance art.
When Jamison died last year as the result of a tragic
accident, Coleman pondered how to express his grief
and leave Jamison’s son with a record of this unique
friendship. Using his talents as a playwright and
performer, Coleman has produced a seven-act, one-man
show that attempts to capture the highs, lows, and in-
betweens of this wild and wonderful relationship. “I’d like
to think The Neon Man and Me is a care package to Mark’
s son and family, but it’s helped me in my search for
peace after his death too.”
A sampling of Mark
Jamison's neon art in
Roanoke.
Profits from Coleman’s show go toward a fund for Mark Jamison, Jr. The Neon Man and Me
will be appearing at Roanoke’s Mill Mountain on the Waldron Stage, October 14-16.  Find
additional performances and information at www.slashtipher.com.
Mark Jamison and
Slash Coleman in
Roanoke circa 1991.
Photo: Jenny Ohlsen
© Slash Coleman 2006