I seem to notice artists tend to have frenemies rather than friends. I think this is good because it makes the artist a bit competitive which helps them improve. Though to find an artist seeking and at your same level may be something best created by hapchance of making acquaintance at art school. I think because most artists get lonely that's why many make emotional or provocative art. The funnest artists tend to be extroverted if not a bit trollish which I have a hard time keeping up or dealing with, myself. You may just smooth in with an artist, though, but yoi have to be in the right place and at the right time, it also means you have to seem interesting to each other - artists seek inspirations / idealism, after all. I'm no expert but this is my observation, I think it's worth noting but don't letit set you back. I, too would be interested in the same thing actually but lately I've spent more time on people than learning art and I'm a newbie x3 I wouldn't want to hold you back with my skill level, you seem very talented.
Do you feel drained talking to people for long periods of time? I think one great cause of shyness is commitment fear so if you do have this you are perhaps seeking for an ideal friend subconsciously, and someone like you may be equally shy. Shy people looking for shy people I guess isn't very promising, as for thsoe who aren't shy... most may have already gotten wrapped up with an art group. Shy artists may contribute unique or well-meaning art to get noticed. It's trickier if you aren't a full time artist, I guess. Though if you persist you should be able to get someone good you are looking for. I'd recommend Skype as opposed to large anonymous/open/room chat networks, large networks tend to hold more sporadic people who are more into what they seek socially than getting to know someone for visual art (seeking text vs pictures). Most socially successful artists I have noticed seem to use Skype and deviantArt. Good art and offline presence can also be a great attractor for others, artistic peristency means you will always have something to share, offline presence means they won't be afraid of you vanishing into non-existence like plenty internet users do.
As for non-artist friends, call and video call is something many prefer of others with trust, or depends how open and outgoing the person you talk to is. For an artist is actually a lot easier to draw and talk than draw and type, anyway. Quite a large proportion of furries are shy, very introvert or reserved in general too, others have low esteem and some are just simply anti-social.
All the best.
Hope this helps.