I've used SFML, and if you can learn either C++ or a language that it has bindings for, then you definitely won't be disappointed. It's extremely easy to use, and it can do a lot.
I would suggest learning C++, though, because it's quick, powerful, and it would be useful for a lot of things. C++ will get you a lot farther in the programming world than Python will. There's really no need at all to learn the winAPI side of Visual C++. It's a pain in the backside, unportable, and you don't really need it. Just learn the basic C++ syntax, and you'll be fine to go ahead and start learning the API for SFML, wxWidgets, or anything else that uses C++.
Here's a good web site that teaches C++ syntax, if you're interested.
Bookmarks