Jay F. Coleman, M.A., Ed., H.D.
TEACHING ARTIST
Jay Coleman, M.A. Ed., H.D., special educator, artist, educational advocate, has been in the service of children for over 15 years. With experience teaching and as an administrator in public, private and charter schools, he has concentrated his expertise in the field of special education. As a professional artist and father, his sensitivity to the human spirit has enabled him to educate and inspire parents and students alike.
After attending Morehouse College 94’ he returned to D.C. to further his studies at the Corcoran School of Art, 99’. Under the direction of his mentor Lois Mailou Jones, he began graduate studies at Howard University. Jay subsequently earned his master’s degree in Special Education for children with emotional and behavioral disorders from George Washington University and is trailblazing by seeking new and innovative methods for engaging and educating the exceptional child. Founder of Slickfish Education & Therapy and Slickfish LLC, Coleman has developed activities and curricula utilizing salt-water fish tanks to therapeutically educate and inspire children and adults of all ages and ability levels. His focus has been Autism spectrum disorders with regards to all children, especially its impact on the African-American Community.
As a portrait painter, he has been commissioned by presidents of colleges and countries (Angola, Cape Verde). His portrait of Rosa Parks hung at her memorial service and his murals bring color to many DC schools and communities. Recently, Coleman unveiled a mural at the National Museum of African Art celebrating the connections between Omani and East African cultures. His Mural of former DC Mayor, Marion Barry was unveiled by DC Mayor, Muriel Bowser and hangs in Ward 8. Recent projects include ongoing community work, a bronze sculpture for Barry Farms Recreation Center , 15 bronze medallions for the Howard Theatre Walk of Fame and three murals commissioned by the Ellen Degeneres Show.
See Jay’s work at jayfcoleman.com