Born in the Bronx, New York and raised in Puerto Rico, Diego Barea has shaped a creative vision deeply rooted in the Caribbean yet projected on a global scale. From an early age, he explored multiple artistic disciplines: first through painting, later as a musician studying at the Escuela Libre de Música, where he played the tuba from seventh grade through high school. At the same time, he began experimenting with filmmaking, participating in the Festival Ponte Los Cortos with a series of experimental films.

His presence at the festival left a lasting mark. After presenting works such as Bailewood and Los Nietos, the festival introduced the “Indie Spirit Award”, a recognition created to honor unconventional films like those he produced. In these projects, Diego wrote, directed, edited, and even composed music, using film as a medium to reflect on the Caribbean sociopolitical experience. What began as artistic exploration soon translated into professional opportunity: he was invited to join the festival team, transitioning from participant to Head of Social Media Marketing.

In that role, he managed digital campaigns and live coverage of the festival’s award weekends, coordinating with production houses, participants, and sponsors to create content and interviews. He designed and scheduled digital ads through Meta Business Suite, analyzed KPIs, and developed communication strategies that elevated the festival’s visibility across traditional and digital media. This experience provided structure to his creativity, grounding it in marketing strategy, event production, and performance-driven storytelling.

Parallel to this, Diego was cultivating an idea that evolved into Gallina, the fashion brand he founded in 2020 after transforming his former production house, Cine Gallina (originally DBD Productions). Gallina was born with the purpose of redefining Caribbean fashion and the perception of Latin identity within the global industry. The brand fuses high-fashion techniques with streetwear and combines traditional craftsmanship with digital art methods to deliver a message of cultural empowerment, all while competing at an international standard.

Through Gallina, Diego has directed over 10 editorial campaigns and fashion collections, produced capsule drops and independent releases, and organized multidisciplinary events merging fashion, music, and art. Among these is The G Project, a platform that brings together musicians, designers, and vendors under a curated theme and runway presentation. More than an event, The G Project has become a collaborative hub for models, photographers, designers, and artists pushing the boundaries of Puerto Rico’s creative industries.

Gallina has steadily grown, achieving in 2025 a 76% increase in sales and a 26% growth in digital reach, while also enabling collaborations with artists such as Pao Pao, Villano Antillano, Ana Macho, Baby Yami, and Calma Carmona. Diego has also partnered with renowned designers including Héctor Omar for couture and production work, gaining recognition from industry leaders like Cristina Pérez, director of Pasarela Pas Pas.

Diego’s background as a filmmaker, musician, and designer allows him to curate holistic experiences—from conceptualizing campaign visuals to directing artists, producing music, and delivering final runway presentations. His multidisciplinary approach makes Gallina not only a fashion brand but a cultural and entrepreneurial project that promotes innovation, collaboration, and Caribbean authenticity in the global fashion landscape.