The Application and Challenges of Virtual Reality (VR) Painting Technology in Art Education in China: A Case Study of Universities in Mianyang, Sichuan Province

Abstract

This study investigates the application and challenges of virtual-reality (VR) painting technology in the fine-arts curriculum of a university in Mianyang, Sichuan Province, China. Using a qualitative embedded case-study design, eight first- and second-year fine-arts majors were followed in depth. The analysis focuses on immersion, spatial perception, adaptation of creative habits, and cultural localization when students produce artwork in VR. Results show that VR painting performs well for low-complexity tasks, yet encounters technical bottlenecks—rendering distortion, imprecise control, and disrupted workflows—when high precision is required. Users report physiological fatigue and motion sickness, and they must negotiate a steep learning curve. Cultural fit and language barriers further constrain adoption. While VR painting holds clear pedagogical promise, wider educational deployment hinges on resolving both technological shortcomings and socio-cultural mismatches.