31 Day Painting Challenge

In 2021 I decided to take part in the Strada Easel Painting Challenge. I challenged myself to do a painting a day for 31 days! 31 different oil compositions and about 120 hours of work! The challenge offered rewards of Strada Easels and painting courses through Sentient Academy.

Stephany Castilla in her home studio

In the long run, the reward was the journey. Daily painting inhibited my need for perfection and sparked joy in everyday objects. I discovered that I did have time to paint every day. I also found that I could use my daily painting to pay it forward. Living in Ottawa, I have had easy access to art supplies. For many Indigenous youths living in remote communities, it is a struggle to find simple art supplies. So to mark my 2021 challenge I decided to pay it forward. 10% of Daily Painting sales were donated to The Art For Aid Project which aims to provide Indigenous youth and educators in remote communities with quality art tools.

Each year I donate to a charity that resonates with me.

2025: Ottawa Food Bank
31 paintings in 31 days Challenge raised $350 for the Ottawa Food Bank. Watch how it unfolded on my Instagram Account

2023: Ottawa Food Bank and Stittsville Food Bank
50% of Daily Painting sales were donated to the Ottawa Food Bank. Read how my 31-day painting challenge raised over $1000. My solo exhibit, Vintage and Blooms, will raise funds for the Stittsville Food Bank

2022: Ottawa Paw Pantry
20% of Daily Paintings sales were donated to Ottawa Paw Pantry which provides temporary food assistance to qualifying low-income pet owners who are currently unable to afford food for their pets and may be forced to give up their pets without food assistance.

2021: Art for Aid
10% of Daily Painting sales were donated to The Art For Aid Project
which aims to provide Indigenous youth and educators in remote communities with quality art tools. 

Please see what available in my Daily Paintings Gallery

Sunflowers