Eh, Don't worry about jumping in too deep. I started using the Arduino to build a self contained 4 axis camera control rig. I still don't know anywhere near enough to do that but I am learning. If you are not on a major time limit, just go out and pick up an Arduino Uno and a starter kit and just start small, blink led, blink with delay, push on push off led ect... Then slowly start expanding what you can do.
I've been with it for a few weeks and although most of my 'projects' are trivial, I'm learning a lot more about the language, hardware and how to reach my goal.
If budget is an issue there are some great Arduino clones and just order mass part kits from overseas, very cheap.
If time is the issue I'd just pick up an Uno and buy the 14x9 LED shield as suggested above, start watching I2C tutorials and matrix display tutorials, get it to do some basic stuff and come back to this fine community for further assistance.
Be warned though, once you start understanding the Arduino, you'll be hooked, soon everything is an Arduino project.
I wish you the best of luck, although my knowledge is limited I'd be happy to help any way I can once you are on your way.