paul,

there are graphics and art forums with 'off-topic' and/or debate channels. The debate forum over at wetcanvas gets downright volatile from time to time.

personally, i can understand how Xara would want to limit the content of the site, but i think it is at least a little cowardly. even artists have ideas outside of their art and it begs the question of art content; is a drawing done in Xara that graphically demonstrates the artists political stance taboo?

for what it is worth,
geo.