David Leppan is somewhat of a nomad having grown up in Africa, attended university in Austria (which he never completed), and lived between Europe and Asia for the last two decades. He is a pioneer in big data used to fight international crime, and soon will launch Los Patios Ibiza, an oasis on the island for islanders.
Whitewall caught up with Leppan to learn his favorite spots in Ibiza.
Bruce Nauman, “Walking in an Exaggerated Manner Around the Perimeter of a Square”, 1967–1968, 10min, 16mm film on video, projected, black and white, sound; © ARS, NY and DACS, London 2020, courtesy of Tate Modern.
WHITEWALL: What is your preferred morning plan?
DAVID LEPPAN: I never close the curtains, preferring instead for the morning sun that rises at the end of the pool (behind a mountain, thankfully) to wake me. It’s the best alarm clock. I normally feed my kittens, Ping and Pong, and head down to Cala Olivera for a quick morning swim in the sea before anyone else is there. Thereafter, it’s a few calls and email, a quick visit to Los Patios to check on progress, some Instagram, and then I start to prepare lunch, the first meal of the day for me.
Bruce Nauman, “Black Marble Under Yellow Light”, 1987, 380 x 5000 x 6000 mm, Light installation and black marble blocks; © ARS, NY and DACS, London 2020, courtesy of Tate Modern.
WW: Where is the best sunset spot?
DL: Truthfully, at home. I am always happy to have sunset drinks and dinner at home or at friends. It’s where I am most comfortable and can avoid the masses of tourists, poor service, and bad food. If I venture out for sundowners, then it’s Los Enamorados in Portinatx to see my friends Pierre and Roze.
JMW Turner, “A First Rate Taking in Stores”, 1818, 39×28 cm, pencil and watercolor; © JMW Turner, courtesy of Tate Modern.
WW: Where would you head to enjoy a romantic dinner?
DL: Every meal should have its romance, even if it’s just a setting for one! I love to cook (and to eat). It’s so rare someone makes you dinner today that the effort of someone doing so is already romantic. If it is a romantic dinner out, then it’s Can Domo where Pau Barba has created a magic hideaway.
Bruce Nauman, “Falls, Pratfalls and Sleights of Hand (Clean Version)”, 1993; © ARS, NY and DACS, London 2020, courtesy of Tate Modern.
WW: If you had to choose a cultural or arty plan in Ibiza, what would it be?
DL: My favorite is an early evening visit to Casa Broner in Sa Penya before going on for drinks and possibly dinner in the old town. Dalt Vila is a UNESCO heritage site and our contemporary museum, MACE is something of an oasis for those with a love of art and an interest in artists who were born or lived here.
WW: What about beach clubs? Which one’s the best?
DL: My friend Victor has just opened Jondal which looks beautiful and I am certain the food will be good too. Otherwise, the little chiringuito in Cala Xuclar.
