I think that no matter what you do, your graphics program is dead. Finding a new one should be your first goal, not a new OS. If you can find an open source graphics program that does what you need, you can run it on any computer system.
Basic rule: figure out what you need to do, NOT what you do it with. In your case, that's some kind and degree of graphic manipulation/creation. Make a list of EXACTLY what tasks you do with graphics. That's Step #1. Now research programs that may do all or most of those things. That's step #2. Then and only then find an OS that will run it. Install that OS on a trial basis if possible or put it on a spare computer.
You are 100% right on this one Rocky.
