Francesco Dama is a gallerist and writer based in San Francisco, CA. A regular contributor to Italy Segreta since its inaugural issue, he also writes for a range of print and digital publications, including papers and catalog essays. His work offers critical insights into the international contemporary art and Italian cultural scenes, with a particular attention to queer themes. His writing has appeared in Hyperallergic, Fantastic Man, Design Anthology UK, Widewalls, and Lampoon Magazine.

Our writers come from all different walks of life–from all over the world, from different professional backgrounds, from all ages. We prefer our writers to be based in Italy: some were born and raised here, others moved here on a whim a few years ago. To us, the experience of those who grew up in Italy is just as important as those who have come here, seeing and feeling our culture through fresh eyes.

We like to publish evocative writers no matter their editorial experience. Whether a full-time journalist or someone who writes just for fun, our contributors are united by a passion for exploring the hidden corners of Italian culture and uncovering the stories that are often overlooked by mainstream media. As you read through our site, you’ll find that the voice of each and every writer shines through their work. Some articles may seem like they’ve been written by a non-native English speaker: that’s probably because they are. Just as we celebrate the beautiful, little things of Italian life, we embrace the small quirks that make each writer unique. And so the voice of Italy Segreta is exactly this: the tune, pitch and chords of each and every contributor, harmonizing to create a magazine that shows how Italy really feels.