The Pullman Arts Commission will host the annual Pullman Art Fest from May 16-18.

Brady Boone, farmer and metal artist, is a member of the Pullman Arts Commission. Boone said for the first time last year, organizers blocked off Olsen Street and the Neill Public Library parking lot for the event in downtown Pullman.

The central location downtown included space for a stage and for food vendors, artists’ booths and nonprofit booths to line the streets, Boone said.

“It was a giant success,” Boone said. “The same format for ArtFest will take place again this year.”

Boone said ArtFest presents an opportunity for both businesses and artists to get exposure for who they are and what they do.

“It is so easy in today’s world to purchase goods and have them delivered straight to your door,” Boone said. “In doing this, local people are often forgotten in the process.”

Boone said they have seen a larger turnout each year and they have found ways to enhance the event each time.

Boone said art is important to him and he hopes the festival can help the community connect to local artists. Boone began working on his family’s farm after college and that is where his artwork blossomed, he said.

“Over time I began to take different pieces of metal that had come from various farm implements and started turning them into art,” Boone said. “This eventually led to becoming passionate about all forms of art and then [having] the chance be on the Pullman Arts Commission.”

Boone said he hopes that people will come and enjoy the artwork regardless of the weather.

“We hope that as many people will come make this event very special,” Boone said. “We are very passionate about art and the community of Pullman.”

ArtFest will take place 6-8 p.m. Saturday at Pullman City Hall.