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 2008