Art demands we express ourselves—even when we have nothing worth saying.

The value isn’t always in what’s said, but in the act of saying it.

It’s the act of expressing—especially when we’re not inspired—that strengthens our ability to create when inspiration does strike.

That’s why we call it a practice—it’s something we return to, over and over.

But the practice isn't always meant for consumption. It's the workshop.

This ongoing process of expression happens in different spaces. I think of them as three modes of artistic expression.

1. Expression in the practice room. This is where we train, free from judgment. It’s private by design—not meant for external consumption.

2. Expression in the workshop. This is where we actualize our work by sharing it with others. It is in the middle of the spectrum—part practice, part showtime. This could be a blog post, a sketch, a jam session—spaces where the work meets the world, but isn’t expected to be final.

3. Expression in the gallery. This is where your work is polished and presented as your best. You’re saying, “This is my best shot.” You’re placing it on display, open to judgment, claiming it as your own.

We need all of these in cycles. The great artist is always practicing, even when they have nothing to say. They are sharing along the way in their workshop. And from time to time, they step into the gallery—to release an album, stage a performance, or hang a painting on the wall.