I was browsing in an overstock store recently and was struck by the huge amount of "decorative accessories" that were there. Large framed posters, prints on wood, mirrors, and decorated slates were heavily discounted. Safe things to buy if you needed color on your walls...very affordable.
Even Pottery Barn has added wall decor such as poster art disguised as paintings. Safe to buy...no one would question your taste since it came from Pottery Barn.
Unfortunately, after a few years the styles will change and then so will the wall decor.
A sad thing...there is a lot of affordable original art out there...and it is created here in the USA...if you fall in love with it who cares if it won't match your sofa...maybe it speaks to you visually and brings back a memory, or it makes you happy or it calms you...that alone validates it for you...so get art savvy!
Get out and go look at art...meet the artists...there is art priced for everyone.And...your find will be an original!

There is currently discussion on the web about art workshops and how to find out about the quality of them. I have participated in my share of workshops as well as teaching some of my own.
 I have had good experiences thus far, and here is why: Look at the artists whose work you like, then research to find out if they teach. Make sure that they offer workshops for your level. Be honest in assessing your level and if you aren't sure then seek an unbiased opinion. Ask other artists about workshops; especially ones that interest you. In the case of women; especially find out if the instructor is unbiased. I have heard horror stories about some instructors who don't take women artists seriously.
I hope this helps, because a good workshop will challenge you to take your work to a higher level as well as nurture your creative spirit.