Hi Dan, I am a 2D artist too, working primarly on top-down RPG layouts and pixel art. I too am learning Blender. I would love to find some other people, programmers, developers and artists, to work with so that I can learn more and get experience. after 7pm UK time also suits me perfectly because I am UK based and that is when I get home as well.
email me if you would like to discuss more - cabochongames@gmail.com
Anna