Some *nix distros use open source drivers for graphics some use proprietary drivers. Most distros give you the option to choose. From what I gather apart from

Some *nix distros use open source drivers for graphics some use proprietary drivers. Most distros give you the option to choose. From what I gather apart from performance differences between drivers users may opt for one or the other (proprietary or not) depending on the licensing outcomes they seek for their project. Blender is pretty popular for 3d work, not sure what other software tools are used.