I recently bought a machine and taught myself with a little reading and some good advice from other quilters. The machine took a few days to learn enough to piece on. The rotary cutter was easy, though very sharp so be careful. Buy lots of extra fabric (100% cotton). And if you are an artist, just let it happen.
It's taken about a month to learn a few of the basics, and I imagine over time all the principles will fall into place. I always did like building blocks as a kid. More than anything quilting is fun and a great way to practice patience. If you already hand stitch you are one step ahead of where I started out. Go have some fun!
Oh yeah, the Jinny Beyer's books are great if you are talking artistic as apposed to utilitarian. I think a combination of both art and craft are always involved though.