‘We are a skateboarding magazine. We don’t do journalism, we do entertainment.’
Riccardo Romano
Spacca
ITALY
Can you tell me something about Rome that no one knows?
Trust me, Rome is a city waiting to be discovered. There are things that surprise even me every day and views that I never tire of looking at. Every time I try to show someone around, I end up being the one who is amazed by something new. Sometimes you search high and low, and then you find the best things right under your nose. Rome hides nothing from anyone; it simply confides its secrets to you at the right moment, as a good friend does. So I’m telling you, the freshest water is from the street fountains and the best carbonara is eaten at your friend’s house. The most beautiful view can be seen from each of the hills, and the most precious things can be found like at the sunday morning market: going through stuff and rummaging through the things.
How do you come up with the idea to start a brand new printed skatemag?
At first, it was meant to be a fanzine dedicated to our local DIY spot at Ponte della Musica in Rome, independently produced and sold to raise funds for building new skateboarding structures. And in fact, that’s exactly what happened: I managed to finance the last three additions—a manny pad, a new ledge, and a concrete wave. I was amazed by the interest it received, and the satisfaction was so great that it made me believe in the idea of creating a full magazine. At the same time, though, I had no idea how to actually make one. I had just started taking photos and didn’t know how to use layout programs or even how to export files for print. None of this would have been possible without the support of my friends. Looking back, I think the magazine project really pushed me beyond my limits, forcing me to learn something new every day. And that’s probably what I love most about it.
How different is your mag compared to other Italian skatemags like Fotta and Damn?
The difference between the first and second issues was striking. The first was somewhere between a fanzine and a photo book, while the second took on the shape of a classic skate magazine, with articles, interviews, and ads. In other words, Spacca’s personality has been taking shape over time, which makes it interesting to follow as a reader. And I believe that with volume 3, we’ll make it clear who we are.What makes Spacca unique, and also its strength, is its ability to present itself as a wide-ranging project: open to everyone, and capable of reconnecting small Italian scenes into a growing network that keeps expanding. Stylistically, I’d describe it as a DIY approach to contemporary editorial design, balancing clarity with authenticity, and simplicity with impact. It’s hard for me to point out the differences from the magazines that inspired and taught me, because without them Spacca probably wouldn’t exist today.
Why did you call it Spacca?
Many people think the title comes from the Italian expression “spacca,” which literally means “to smash” and is used to say that something is cool. Of course, there’s a play on words there, but in reality the magazine’s name isn’t that self-referential. In fact, the idea actually comes from the DIY spirit of the project. I remember going crazy trying to find a name, something simple and effective, not too elaborate but memorable. The inspiration struck while building a new structure at our DIY spot: we needed to fill it before pouring the concrete, so I grabbed a hammer and started smashing up an old unskatable obstacle.You know, sometimes you have to smash something down to build something new, that’s what it refers to. And if you think about it, that logic applies to almost everything: breaking habits, changing, growing and thinking outside the box. But I also think it fits skateboarding perfectly, both spiritually and physically.
‘I believe the real strength of a skate mag lies in its ability to channel passion into culture.’
What is the feedback from the skateboard brands and local skate industry so far?
I must say that the response to these two volumes was excellent. After all, it had been a while since there wasn’t anything like this in Rome. But I was pleasantly surprised by the interest shown in the project, as well as the support received from our local skate shop 7Hills, which produced the entire first issue and helped us to grow. But also, from international brands such as Uniqlo, as well as smaller companies that embraced the project from the outset. Let’s remember that Spacca is a free magazine, and without their support, none of this would be possible. However, we are well aware that the skate market in Italy is not doing very well, so I won’t lie to you and say that everything is rosy. But in our own small way, we continue to think big!
Were there any other skatemags or zines in Rome previously?
As far as I know and remember, in 2010 a Rome-based skateboarding magazine called “Pure” was published, featuring photographs by the master Mirai. If I’m not mistaken, the magazine ceased publication in 2012, after which I don’t remember any other Roman publishing projects, even though Rome obviously continued to be the backdrop for numerous photos and articles, such as the iconic Abrief Glance by the legendary Davide Biondani and the more recent Fotta, whose photographer Fede, if I’m not wrong, you’ve already had the pleasure of interviewing.
Is there anything you would not print in a skatemag from a content or ad perspective?
We’re interested in every aspect of skateboarding, but we don’t like to get caught up in mainstream chatter or pay attention to those market games that try to swallow it up.We’re not interested in trends or competitions.We do this for those who are interested in the reality of skateboarding, made up of people driven solely by passion, who struggle every day to find new spots and perform new tricks. And it’s not even about the tricks, but all the emotions you feel in the process. These are the stories we like to tell, and we always try to do so with respect for the truth. Of course, sometimes you have to compromise with reality. From an advertising point of view, we always look for sponsors in the industry or brands that can offer something interesting to the scene. As for the topics I don’t want to cover, I prefer to leave out politics and other topics that, however important, can be divisive.We are a skateboarding magazine.We don’t do journalism, we do entertainmentg.
Proudest moment so far?
The moment when Matteo Botti, one of my closest friends and one of the skaters I admire the most, suggested me and our filmer friend Simone Rocca to work together on his new video “Rough, Strong and Eternal” for Spacca 2. I’ll let you imagine how happy I was that two of my closest friends wanted to be part of it. It was incredibly satisfying and a huge motivational boost. For me, it was the beginning of a new era, and I will always be grateful to them for that.
Most funny or embarrassing?
One of the funniest things happened during the tour in Puglia.When the police arrived on the seafront where we were shooting and skating, they asked me if we had permission, and I said yes. They took my word for it and started defending us from passers who were angry about their walls. Another time, in Cattolica in Romagna, we weren’t so lucky.When a lady asked us the same question, we replied that we had all the permits. Only later we discovered that she was the mayor of the town. Despite everything, once we explained the magazine and the project to her, she left us skating with just a few recommendations.
Not many skatemags can claim their own boards.What triggered the idea?
This is a controversial issue. On the one hand, a magazine is a media, not a brand. By creating its own line of boards, it would risk not only creating a conflict of interest with its own advertising partners, but also damaging its image by appearing to favour its own products rather than promoting skateboarding impartially. However, I often wonder, why not? After all, who more than a magazine that works so hard in the name of skateboarding would have the right to extend its vision to the heart of this culture, namely the board? Perhaps through a series of graphic collaborations with skateboard artists, or with the companies themselves, I don’t know.Why not to create something even more inclusive, creative, and inspiring?
‘Jesus christ, the marble in this city is too beautiful not to skate on.’
Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.What is the skate scene like?
You’re right, Rome is incredible. There are some amazing spots in breathtaking settings. However, it’s not an easy city to skate in, because whatever you do seems to destroy a piece of history, even if it’s just a sidewalk or a bench. But it’s not just that, it’s a city that’s too spread out and poorly connected.With terrible services and dysfunctional infrastructure. All this affects the scene, which exists but is fragmented into neighborhoods that people often don’t leave out of laziness. However, the people are fantastic and reflect that chaotic but hospitable and friendly Roman spirit. Not to mention the weather, guys, we’re really lucky. In my opinion, October in Rome is the perfect time for skating.
How tempting is it to skate these iconic buildings/places but respecting the preservation of history?
You know, I think Rome’s conservatism is partly due to its inability to modernize, venting its frustration at its own failure by clinging to the past and tradition. Obviously, respecting the urban context is important, but the place where you live should allow for evolution, not hinder it. Living in a stimulating environment is essential for creativity and personal growth. There are no other options for skateboarders in Rome. Obviously, I’m not saying you should skateboard on the Trevi Fountain, but Jesus christ, the marble in this city is too beautiful not to skate on. I mean, a couple of tricks aren’t going to bring down the “eternal city”, right?
Last question. If you could interview one person?
Wow, that’s a tough one…you see, there are so many interesting people and stories I’d like to hear out there, so it’s hard to say. I would like to know more about Dancer CPH, their concept and their aesthetic which I find truly fascinating. A chitchat with Hjalte Halberg would be very interesting. I already met him in Copenhagen, he ‘s a wonderful person and an incredible skater!