Well Im not sure is it can be used as a resource, but. before we get 100 topics named 'which is best' I thought.
Free
Anim8or Free 3D Animation Software www.blender.org Wings 3d
Purchase neccessary
Modeling tools for designers Autodesk - Home Page (30 day trial possible)
NewTek
Free vector/2d software/ photoedit
free
GIMP - The GNU Image Manipulation Program Inkscape. Draw Freely
Purchase neccessary
Adobe (30 day trial possible)
Err, given these can be classed as resources I will add to them if possble.
If these are already in a list, someone hit me.XD