Teaching Philosophy
My teaching approach centers on fostering student engagement through practices that support agency, critical thinking, and reflection on both the consumption and creation of visual media, emphasizing equity and inclusion. With the constant influx of images from social media and advertising, photography stands at a pivotal and dynamic juncture. As major consumers of media, students must be empowered to act as critical agents in an era where images are ubiquitous and instantly accessible. I see my role as supporting students in engaging with the broader dialogue on how photography informs, influences, and impacts our understanding of social and historical contexts. Specifically, I encourage students to explore photography's intellectual, aesthetic, and practical dimensions and to connect these to the cultural conditions that shape our present day.

Artist agency.  Agency refers to the creative autonomy that artists possess—the power to make decisions, express their unique voices, and shape cultural narratives. It enables them to influence the meaning of their work and define their roles within both the art world and society. In my teaching, I prioritize creating an environment where students are encouraged to take risks, cultivate their voices, and discover their own agency. This approach empowers them to reimagine the photographic medium in ways that resonate with their interests, all while grounding their practice in the historical context of photography.

In introductory courses, I design open-ended assignments inspired by both historical and contemporary exhibitions, inviting students to experiment and explore. As students advance, the assignments remain flexible, but they build on previous learning, allowing for the exploration of more complex, nuanced themes. Throughout all levels, I showcase a diverse range of artists who document personal experiences, offering students valuable reference points to inform and inspire their own work.

Critical thinking. Critical thinking in photography involves analyzing images, understanding their context, and evaluating their impact. It encourages artists and viewers to challenge assumptions, recognize biases, and explore how art shapes cultural narratives. By examining composition, technique, aesthetics, and the social, historical, and political contexts of visual media, students deepen their understanding of photography’s role in shaping perception, evoking emotion, and provoking thought.

I design open-ended projects that allow students to incorporate their personal interests, applying assignment parameters in ways that resonate with them. Nontraditional assessments, such as photo walk worksheets, help students reflect on their creative process and evaluate their technical and critical thinking skills, providing insights into their growth and informing my responsive approach to teaching.

In critiques, I focus on intentional interpretation, encouraging feedback on technique, composition, and presentation. Starting with description—rather than interpretation—fosters discussions on signs and signifiers, revealing deeper concepts in their work.

My courses challenge students to master image-making while exploring photography’s power to document, critique, and inspire change. Assignments like "Camera Functions," "Recreating Caravaggio," and "Creating Mood through Color" foster both technical skills and conceptual understanding. Students also engage in presentations, museum visits, and workshops, connecting with contemporary artists and the local art community to refine their craft, build confidence, and deepen their visual literacy.

Equitable & inclusive education. Teaching in rural Mississippi has revealed the profound inequities in higher education, motivating me to create a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel empowered from day one. Many students face significant socioeconomic and literacy challenges, and my curriculum reflects this diversity by integrating diverse perspectives, histories, and contributions across themes, expanding beyond dominant cultural narratives.

By including voices from historically marginalized groups—such as Indigenous peoples and immigrants—I aim to provide a richer, more inclusive understanding of the subject matter, ensuring all students feel represented and engaged. To further support their success, I’ve established a fully stocked materials inventory at Delta State University, sustained by community donations and fundraisers to keep resources accessible amid rising costs. Recognizing the expense of photography books, I also encourage students to utilize the Inter-Library Loan system to access hard-to-find texts.

Courses Taught:
* developed curriculum

Delta State University, 2020-
Assistant Professor of Art

  • Introduction to Art (Gen. Ed.)

  • Introduction to Photography *

  • Intermediate Photography *

  • Documentary Photography *

  • Studio Lighting & Large Format *

  • Alternative Processes *

  • Beyond Basic Digital Photography (Digital Photography I) *

  • Color Management and the Fine Digital Print (Digital Photography II) *

  • Methods in Art *

  • Senior Thesis (BFA)

  • Integrated Technology IV (MFA) *

  • Graduate Seminar (MFA) *

Student Work (MFA):

Gunner Sizemore
Through the Gate
Pigment prints, 20x24” each
MFA Thesis Project
Master of Fine Arts, Delta State University, 2024
www.gunnersizemore.com

Sara Wilkerson
Masquerade
Multi-channel video
MFA Thesis Project
Master of Fine Arts, Delta State University, 2024

Student Work (BFA):

Katie Burns
Fashion Look Book
Pigment prints, various sizes
BFA Thesis Project
Bachelors of Fine Arts, Delta State University, 2021

Max Steuer
Family Dynamics
Pigment prints, various sizes
BFA Thesis Project
Bachelors of Fine Arts, Delta State University, 2022

Abigail Killian
Beauty in Unexpected Places
Silver Gelatin Prints, various sizes
BFA Thesis Project
Bachelors of Fine Arts, Delta State University, 2021

Jovany Guerrero
Picturing Family Assignment
Pigment prints, various sizes
Documentary Photography (Junior level), Delta State University, 2022

Siearra Blackwell
Portrait Assignment
Pigment print, 10x10”
Beyond Basic Digital Photography (Sophomore level, Digital Photography I), Delta State University, 2022

Scott Moore
Reproducing Iconic Photographs Assignment
Silver Gelatin prints, various sizes
Intermediate Photography (Sophomore level), Delta State University, 2022

Ella McQueen
Excerpts from Inheritance of Innocence
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Documentary Photography (Junior level), Delta State University, 2022

Shelby Davis
Passage of Time Assignment
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Color Management (Junior level), Delta State University, 2021

Deanna Thompson
Photographing a Trade
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Color Management (Junior level), Delta State University, 2021

Jovany Guerrero
Portrait Assignment
Scanned 4x5” negative, Pigment print, 8x10”
Studio Lighting & Large Format Photography (Junior level), Delta State University, 2022

Katie Burns
Reproducing Iconic Photographs Assignment
Silver gelatin print, 8x10”
Intermediate Photography (Sophomore level), Delta State University, 2021

Chris Kalil
Mental Health Assignment
Silver gelatin print, 9x9”
Intermediate Photography (Sophomore level), Delta State University, 2020

Jovany Guerrero
Reproducing Iconic Photographs Assignment
Silver gelatin print, 9x9”
Intermediate Photography (Sophomore level), Delta State University, 2021

Tardysha Wilder
Chemigram Assignment based on Exploitation
Image transfer, chemigram
Alternative Processes (Sophomore level), Delta State University, 2020

Mai Alsewaify
Low-Key Portrait Assignment
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Studio Lighting & Large Format Photography (Junior level), Delta State University, 2019

Ross Shackelford
High-Key Portrait Assignment
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Studio Lighting & Large Format Photography (Junior level), Delta State University, 2019

Hope Redden
Low-Key Portrait Assignment
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Studio Lighting (Junior level), Delta State University, 2024

Scott Moore
Narcissus & The Calling of Sts Peter and Andrew (Caravaggio Recreation)
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Studio Lighting (Junior level), Delta State University, 2024

Chandler Rogers
C.T. Salazar (Using strobes on location.)
Pigment prints, 9x12”
Studio Lighting (Junior level), Delta State University, 2024

Student Reviews:

“Jesse Brown provided me with the most encouraging instruction I have ever experienced as a student. I witnessed him work consistently to gather information that met each student’s individual needs in their chosen fields. Not only did he provide me with innovative approaches to my art practice, he gave me a clear example of how to connect with my own students in the classroom. I am forever grateful for his support and contribution to receiving my MFA.”
— MFA Graduate, Delta State University, 2024

“I’d like to also offer a special thanks to Jesse Brown for being the most patient mentor. I was never (and, proudly, still am not) the smartest student when it came to art history or artists, but there was never once where you laughed at me or made me feel lesser than; instead, I felt encouraged. You were the most uplifting mentor.” 
— MFA Graduate, Delta State University, 2024

”Thank you Jesse for always believing in us and making us feel heard. We could not have survived the past two summers without you.”
— MFA Graduate, Delta State University, 2024

”This is a fantastic course, and I would highly recommend it to anyone.”
— Introduction to Photography, Delta State University, 2023

”This course was everything that we needed in this program. This is the first time I feel like we got a genuine MFA experience, and I am so grateful for that. We've had other classes that were very helpful, but having the freedom to create and interact with each other was much needed. I genuinely have no complaints about this course, and I have endless great things to say. I had certain expectations entering into this program that I feel are valid and educated, and this was the first time those expectations were fully met.”
— New Technology IV (MFA), Delta State University, 2023

“Very engaging and one of the few classes that I enjoyed attending. Was always readily available to assist in any issues. Pushed everyone to explore outside of their comfort zone. Created safe conversations for everyone to feel comfortable in. Would highly recommend this class and professor to others. “
— Method’s in Art, Delta State University, 2022

”I’m not a photography major but Mr. Jesse is absolutely one of my favorite teachers. He’s so relaxed and chill, but passionate about his artwork and seeing art. It makes me feel safe and I’m so happy to have a teacher like him in the course helping us prepare for the bachelor’s program.”
— Method’s in Art, Delta State University, 2022

“Mr. Jesse is a super cool guy! He’s kind and the kind of teacher you can talk about anything to. He’s relaxed and funny and can explain difficult photography concepts and mechanics in a way that makes it easier to understand. I enjoyed his class thoroughly and I’ll be looking forward to any future classes I have with him.“
— Introduction to Photography, Delta State University, 2021

”This class was educational and hands-on. The teacher was able to help me and answer all my questions in a timely manner. “
— Intermediate Photography, Delta State University, 2021

“Professor Brown was so helpful and always available to us. He went above and beyond in my opinion. I feel like I not only learned how to talk about photography but also how to more intentionally use my camera.”
— Introduction to Photography, Delta State University, 2020

”Jesse is an extremely talented photographer. His down–to–earth mentality helps students feel comfortable when asking for help. Jesse listens very well and helps students foster their ideas into mature, beautiful photographs.”
— Intermediate Photography, Delta State University, 2020

“Always kind and always willing to instruct or show relevant examples of photographers. Made me want to be a photographer. “
— Introduction to Photography, Delta State University, 2019

“This course was excellent. Such experience and portfolio material after just this one class. Very informational, very in-depth, and very fun. My favorite class in a long time.“
— Studio Lighting & Large Format Photography, Delta State University, 2019

Peer Reviews:

“Jesse's course evaluations consistently reflect high levels of student satisfaction, with an average score of 4.57 across all courses. Jesse's efforts to enhance teaching effectiveness through creative methods, involvement in professional development, and collaboration with other departments align with the department's goals. His nomination for the Emerald Award for Teaching further recognizes his impact on student learning. Jesse has been very supportive of the MFA program and taught summer courses in 2023. My conversations with the MFA students revealed Jesse’s exemplary teaching skills and guidance. He has been a great faculty member and colleague.”
— Cetin Oguz, Art Department Chair, Delta State University

“Jesse Brown has been very influential on students and has proven to me that he is the right instructor to lead and grow the Photography program. Students’ feedback about Jesse has been very reassuring that this short tenure at DSU has been a success. I look forward to working with Jesse toward the goals that he set in the areas of teaching, scholarship, and service. It is always great to hear the students’ success after graduation. Please continue to follow up with them and continue your efforts in promoting DSU, the Photography program, and the Art Department. Thanks for all you have done!”
— Michael Stanley, Art Department Chair, Delta State University