I can't yet answer your questions by content.

The catch is in my word "using" (including the quotes).

To me, Ubuntu currently is a promising experiment on a spare
(dual-boot) computer. I may extend the experiment to another one
(again dual-boot). I'm still "inside, looking out" Windows.

I think I'd better not install that ArtistX distro right now, so I
won't be able to judge it soon.

I happen to have the Adobe CS4 suite installed and updated, but not
yet really used. Even though I bought a computer to meet the demands
of Premiere (and of 3D Modeling software).

So, don't hold your breath! :-)