What programming languages are best for developing art software?

For graphics-intensive software, you're going to need something speedy, which is where C++ comes in. But see if the hardware you're targeting can handle slower code; if it can, feel free to use other languages.

It depends on the specific functions you want your software to have. Almost any programming language can help you create a drawing application. However, if you're looking into image processing or animation, C++ is generally more efficient for that kind of work.

You can use whichever language you're comfortable with! In a few years, you'll find many options available without relying on forums for answers. For now, try building a simple drawing program. If you're interested, check out the source code for GIMP—it could be really informative.

You can definitely create a paint app using JavaScript, Python, or Lua—C++ is not a must for that. To start:
1. Choose your programming language.
2. Learn how to make interactive applications and draw on the screen (like using the HTML canvas in JS or Pygame in Python).
3. Get the mouse position and check for button clicks.
4. Draw where the mouse is when the button is pressed.

That’s a basic drawing program! You can add features later, like color options or clearing the canvas. For saving work as PNG files, you might need a library to help with that, but don’t hesitate to come back with more specific questions as you progress.

Before choosing a language, think about what platform you want your software to run on. Avoid vague answers like 'all of them'—focus on one, whether it's a desktop application for Windows, a web app, or an iOS app. This will help narrow your options significantly.