In this study we tested whether drawing and coloring influence cardiovascular recovery and perceived stress following exposure to a stressor. In a mixed experimental design, participants (N = 62) completed an acute stress task before being randomly assigned to one of three brief activities: free-form drawing (full creative control), coloring (limited creative control), or a text copying activity (control group). Results revealed no significant effect of activity type on cardiovascular recovery or perceived stress. Artistic activities, both drawing and coloring, received significantly higher perceived creative control and task enjoyment ratings, but were not accompanied by stress-relieving effects.