One thing that is misleading with gfx programs is that they ARE oriented towards artists. You need artistic ability to make picutres... If you can paint a picture, you can do the same in photoshop, illustrator or fireworks.
Someone who is not good at off computer art will not have much luck with on computer art....
Also a note: Use micrsoft paint in conjunction with the software you use. It is easier to make specific dot changes then any of the above software... And you can actually draw gemoetry!