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Q: I have all of my furniture and now it’s time for me to buy art and accessories. My style is traditional. Does all of my art have to be traditional? I inherited a nice piece of artwork, but it’s very contemporary. I would like to use it, but do not have to. What are your thoughts? — Eunice

A: Art and accessories can really make or break a space. Much like a signature, art is very personal and should reflect your personal style. Mixing styles adds interest to any space. The key in selecting art is to love it and appreciate what you are investing in.

Art offers you an opportunity to express yourself and make a design statement. You might not want to create a bold design statement with your upholstery; however, art can be used to mix things up a bit and expand your artistic horizon.

Art and accessories are similar, but should not be treated the same. Accessories offer a great way to add texture, but are not as personal as artwork.

Every now and then, I meet with a client who has what I call “hotel art,” artwork that is colorful, but far too generic and lacking a personal connection to their design style. The goal with your art is not to match your interior, but to complement it.

A great way to add an eclectic pop to a traditional space is with contemporary art. On the other hand, a beautiful traditional landscape added to a contemporary room can add warmth to a space.

Placement of art is almost as important as the piece of art itself. My friend and local artist, Anne Marsh, specializes in multimedia pieces using Mardi Gras beads, bottle caps and other fun recycled materials. Her work is very vibrant and graphic. Placing her art is the key to fully enjoying it. With her use of bold colors and graphic patterns, Anne’s artwork requires a position of prominence. In other words, I would not create a gallery wall mixing her artwork in with other pieces.

Having a fine piece of art is wonderful, but if it is not installed properly, its impact is diminished. I like to remove all existing distractions and wall décor and start with a clean slate. I can then experiment as to where to showcase artwork. I recommend that you work with a partner and take turns judging where your piece will fit. Once the placement is determined, go to work hanging your piece.

A common mistake is to hang art too high. Most art should be hung around eye level. While this is a general rule, art really needs to be hung in relation to what is next to it and under it. For example, if you are hanging paintings or prints over a sofa, the bottom of your piece should be approximately 10 to 12 inches above the back of the sofa. Artwork over a mantle should be hung at around 6 inches above the mantle. With taller ceilings, you can add 1 or 2 inches — every space is different, but the general rule applies.

When hanging art, make sure that the size fits the scale of the wall. One tiny piece on a large wall will not work and will detract from the work of art you’re showcasing.

Creating a gallery wall is a great way to present art, but if hung slightly off, the entire effect is ruined. Make sure everything is hung at the same level and equally spaced. Accuracy is the key.

Art is history, memories, love and beauty, so be glad that you inherited a piece of contemporary art that you can appreciate. Accessorizing your surroundings is the fun part of your transformation, so enjoy.

Jessica Dauray is owner of Elements of Style Interiors, a full-service interior design firm with offices in Greensboro and Wilmington, and The Studio, a trade-focused fabric and furniture resource. Visit her Web sites at www.elementsofstyleinteriors.com or www.thestudioofgreensboro.com. Have questions? E-mail Jessica at jessicaofeos@bellsouth.net.CutlineCourtesy of Anne Marsh/www.annemarshart.com