The phrase "to explore the medium" means to learn, experiment, and understand the different capabilities and possibilities of a particular form of communication or expression, such as painting, writing, or photography. Full definition
By the 2000s she had started exploring the medium of video installations in order to avoid a paralysis brought on by outside expectations. (en.wikipedia.org)
He believes in exploring the medium thoroughly before shifting his attention to another one. (prabook.com)
I would advice extra emphasis on just exploring the medium for fun things to read. (geekmom.com)