I'm happy to look at smilies.

I'd be extremely wary of avatars. I don't think people will refuse to use FT because of not being able to upload avatars but I think we might lose members if the interface starts becoming visually disruptive. Personally, if I find a site which is too visually annoying, I'll spend less time on it and I don't believe I'd be alone in that view, but am listening to views. I'm also very concerned at the opportunity for misuse as well.