No matter where Michele Taylor moves, she hangs her favorite painting in the living room, where it becomes a focal point for all her visitors to see. "One of our sons is an artist and he created a rather abstract painting that is big, bright and beautiful," she says. "We've moved three times in 15 years, and it always comes with us. It never fails that people comment on it and tell me how much they love it. I may change couches, rugs, other artwork and pillows, but that painting remains. It means the world to me and it's so great!

"Another one of his paintings is also a staple feature in our dining room. It has a different look, but everyone tells me how much they like that one, too," she says. "I am careful that those two paintings remain the focus in each room where they hang -- that nothing else is as bold, to compete with them. I guess you could say I decorate around them."

Taylor has the right idea, says interior designer Jason Farr. "When it comes to picking artwork for your home, the best way to create the right vibe is by selecting pieces that reflect your style and personality. If you are looking for a bold and vibrant look, you may want to pick one standout piece that draws the eye, such as an abstract painting or a contemporary photograph," he says. "Once you decide on the main artwork, you can then build upon it with other pieces that complement it."

Architect and designer Julio Arco says art has the ability to transform any space into an inviting, visually appealing and dynamic environment. "Art can elicit emotions and create a sense of atmosphere from a psychological standpoint. Colors, shapes, patterns and textures all contribute to the creation of a particular mood. Materials also contribute to the atmosphere created by artwork. A large, abstract painting made of heavy materials can evoke a sense of stability, whereas a delicate, intricate piece made of lightweight materials can evoke a sense of fragility."

Moreover, pick art that lifts you up, says award-winning artist Kevin Caron. "The absolutely most important way to set the right vibe for your home is to buy art you love," he says. "You can start with a focal point -- say, what people see when they first walk in -- and buy a painting or sculpture for that location. Then continue to build from there. Don't be in a hurry. It's important to buy art that inspires or simply makes you happy. Art should make you feel something. In your home, it can make you feel comfortable or safe, or send your spirit soaring. Matching the couch is much less important than matching you."

Home stager Robin DeCapua agrees about color. "New rule: Art doesn't have to match your color scheme. Because color sets a mood more than any other factor will, the art colors you choose will have a powerful effect on your space. We're seeing a return to primary colors in interior design lately, and this extends to art as well."

Blue sofa and red art? Sure, why not? "You won't love every color combo, but play around with different ones until if feels right," DeCapua says.

Caron says, no matter what, choose art to make your rooms unique and outstanding. "I just visited a fabulous home of a new patron who wanted to show me where he put the piece," he concludes. "He mentioned how his wife at first didn't understand why art was important or how to buy it, but now she is 'all in' because of how the art in their home makes their life so much richer."