who knows of any good program for drawing 8/16 bit style art, much like many of the icons and avatars seen around BOTB?

MS Paint. Seriously, Paint is all you need. :)

I use GraphicsGale, though: http://www.humanbalance.net/gale/us/

Two sites (forums) that might help you get started with pixel art - there are also threads listing a vast amount of tools you can use for pixeling:
http://pixeljoint.com/
http://pixelation.wayofthepixel.net/

well i guess with that you have enough to made some pixel! :X.... there is a site (witch i don't remember), who have an online application to draw, and you can made pixel there too =P... is like a "painter" online with "control+z" and history and all... I guess b00daw is the guy who send me that link. But i don't remember now.
In pixel joint you will find some programs/links and artist to get inspired faster! =X... enjoy

nice links miau...

I recommend using Colors! for the Nintendo DS... it's so much fun! instant wacom tablet! zoom in for pixel by pixel action! WOOT!

@subliminal: how you mean that: "I recommend using Colors!"

lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link http://www.collectingsmiles.com/colors/ lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link lazy link