Seeing art is one thing, experiencing it is another. Pentalum ­­— a luminarium inspired by Archimedean solids, Gothic cathedrals and Islamic architecture — exemplifies this statement.

Designed by Alan Parkinson and created by the Architects of Air, Pentalum is a three-story inflatable structure consisting of winding mazes and soaring domes that celebrate light, shape and color through unique geometric design.

In the spring of 2014 the Architects of Air first brought their luminarium Miracoco to Pullman, and throughout the course of its four-day run more than 4,000 people visited the structure with nearly 1,000 people being turned away, said Student Entertainment Board (SEB) Arts Programmer Corey Connors.

Due to the event’s huge success, SEB wanted to bring another luminarium back to Pullman, and so they did, making Pullman one of Pentalum’s three stops in the United States.

Pentalum lets students and residents of Pullman see something they’ve never seen before and hopefully never forget.

“Students are never going to see something like this again, and seeing it here in Pullman could make it a highlight for their college career,” said Logan Webbenhurst, director of SEB.

Regardless of how one views or defines art, Pentalum is sure to amaze with its stunning visual blend of shapes, colors and light.

“It’s an out-of-this-world experience. You’re literally taken from the outside environment and put into this whole new one inside with all of these different lights and figures,” said Natasha Baron, associate director of SEB.

Intending to celebrate the beauty of geometry, the structure also inspires wonder and imagination for all of those who gaze through its interior. Pentalum brings a new angle and a new light to art, tackling the traditions of fine arts.

“I think that this event will give attendees a very interesting artistic experience. A lot of people view art as fine arts specifically. The luminarium challenges the definition of art,” Connors said.

Pentalum is running this Thursday through Sunday at the Grimes Way Playfield. The structure is open from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Children 2 years old and younger are free, and general admission is $5.