"A whole bunch of people slapping drums as if they were swatting flies." That’s how I used to view drum circles — just a whole bunch of noise. And so for years I avoided them. The thought of dozens of people banging away near me was simply unappetizing.

But I’ve learned recently that not all drum circles are the same. A drum circle facilitator can turn noise into healing sound, putting people in a state of bliss. So much that people will use words and phrases like “transformative,” “changed my life,” and “the best thing that ever happened to me” to describe their drum-circle experience.

Drum circles, which are basically groups of people gathered in a circle and playing percussion instruments, have been around for a long time. Part of what makes them attractive is that anyone of any age, race and gender can participate. Drumming is easy; no experience is required. Everyone’s a drummer.

Drum circles are relaxing. People can hammer out their stress on a drum. The collective sound can also travel through the body, helping to release energy and tension. I’ve seen people get completely lost in the drumming, eyes closed, grinning broadly, swaying to the beat. Afterwards, they say they feel as if they’re walking on clouds.

Drum circles build relationships. Participants listen to each other in order to play on the same beat. It is not about what one person can drum but rather what sounds the entire group can create. Participants, in unison, can also drum messages such as “yes, we can” or chant someone’s name. Drumming doesn’t always have to be in unison, however. People can take turns expressing their feelings through drumbeats or play around and finish a team-players beat.

Drum circles build confidence and reduce inhibitions. I’ve seen quiet people drum with such confidence that you’d think they’re performing on stage. I’ve seen painfully shy people walk out of a room, after the drum circle has ended, surrounded by a network of new friends.

Drum circles are more than just noise. They are peaceful yet invigorating, empowering and very powerful.

As the headline suggests, here are a few picks of art exhibition openings and shows to check out this weekend in Charlotte and the surrounding area — as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

• Charlotte Artery’s Art Attack exhibition. Open: Fri., Nov. 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Charlotte Artery exhibition will feature art by all founding members of the group, including printmaker Dan Allegrucci, printmaker and mixed media artist Julie Benda, painter Ashley Lathe, and fiber/mixed media artists, Janet Lasher and Bev Nagy. Hosted by Greg Pappanastos.

Exhibition is also open on Nov. 20, from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. and by appointment.

Held at 130 West Bland St. For more information, call 704-942-4790.

• Charlotte Art Collective Holiday Show at Avondale Presbyterian Church. Open: Sat., Nov. 14, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Featuring paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculptures, wood, collage, fiber art, and more. Also featuring a variety of Charlotte artists.

Avondale Presbyterian Church, 2821 Park Road. For more information, call 704-364-0961.

• Antoine Williams' "The Good Fight" from the Game Theory exhibition at Dialect Gallery

• Game Theory exhibition at Dialect Art Gallery. Opening reception and public artist's talk: Fri., Nov. 13, 6 p.m. A solo exhibition by Antoine Williams. Mixed media paintings about different perspectives of competing ideals about life and how we attempt to obtain what we consider happiness and freedom For more information, visit www.rawgoods.org.

Exhibition continues through Dec. 4.

Dialect Art Gallery, 3204 North Davidson St., Ste. C.

• 28th Annual Art Auction at The Light Factory. Open: Sat., Nov. 14. Auction features photography and other fine art from regional, national, and international artists. For tickets or to see works available at the auction, visit www.lightfactory.org. 345 N. College St. 704-333-9755.

• Ginny Edelen's "Feel the Love" from Mint Hill Arts' Small Treasures exhibition

• Small Treasures exhibition and 2009 Fall Jewelry Show at Mint Hill Arts. Opening reception for Small Treasures exhibition: Fri., Nov. 13, 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Exhibition features small works of art. Continues through Dec. 3.; 2009 Fall Jewelry Show. The show will feature handmade artisan jewelry crafted by professional members of Mint Hill Arts. Open: Sat., Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Mint Hill Arts, 7714 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. 704-545-0894.

• Exhilarate the Senses exhibition at The Artisan Galleries and Learning Studio. Opening reception: Fri., Nov. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Experience Autumn in sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Exhibition features collective works by more than 30 emerging and established artists.

The Artisan Galleries and Learning Studio, 1236 East Blvd., Ste. C. 704-779-7697.

• Southern Christmas Show at The Park. The annual Southern Christmas Show: 12 Days of Christmas features Christmas displays, arts and crafts, and entertainment, including a fashion show, choir performances and more. For more information, visit www.southernshows.com. Continues through Nov. 22. Dates/times: Nov. 13, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 16, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 17, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 19, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 20, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 21, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Nov. 22, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $8-$9; $3 for children 6-12 years old; Free for children under 6 years old with a paying adult.

The Park (formerly the Charlotte Merchandise Mart), 2500 Independence Blvd. 704-333-7709.

Here are the five best events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area today, Nov. 13, 2009 — as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

• Lois Mailou Jones: A Life in Vibrant Color exhibition at Mint Museum of Art

• Innovative Works at Booth Playhouse

• Hatebreed with Unearth, Cannibal Corpse, Hate Eternal, Born of Osiris at Amos' Southend

• Game Theory exhibition at Dialect Gallery

• 80's Party at Town Tavern