This paper presents a new art metaverse prototype, constructed using virtual reality technology to create an immersive scene with a specific artistic style and integrate virtual avatar technology to allow interaction with characters in the art painting. Ninety-six college students participated in the study, divided into two groups: the virtual reality group (N = 48), who explored the art metaverse, and the computer group (N = 48), who engaged in traditional art appreciation by viewing artworks on a screen. Both groups then participated in art painting activities. The results showed that the virtual reality group experienced a significantly more positive impact on their art attitude compared to the computer group. Furthermore, EEG attention monitoring revealed that during the art painting activity following the art appreciation activity, the virtual reality group demonstrated significantly higher attention levels than the computer group. This study highlights the potential of virtual reality technology to enhance art appreciation and provides valuable insights for the future development of virtual reality metaverses.