The Flaming Lips' Wayne Coyne Bleeds for His Art

Long-term observers of Oklahoma's premier space cadets the Flaming Lips have long known to expect the unexpected when it comes to the band's antics. Be it walking across crowds in a bubble, visual displays involving puppet shows and fake blood, the Flaming Lips are anything but predictable.

Did we say "fake blood?" The sight of singer Wayne Coyne's face dripping in the red stuff is well established, but the more squeamish amongst are advised to look away now. Video footage shows the 49-year-old frontman using his own blood to make a screen print to commemorate the Flaming Lips' 2010 Austin City Limits performance.


Coyne is seen having his blood extracted from his arm by a nurse who obligingly fills four vials before taking it into his workshop to use for his art. Explaining the decision to use his own bodily fluids, Coyne says, "We thought it would be silly to use chicken blood or something. They don't need to sacrifice their vital fluids any more than I need to."

Rock it Out! blog reports the poster will soon be up for auction, though no details have emerged as to how fans keen to own this unique piece of art will be able to bid for. One thing's for certain though -- Wayne Coyne is a man who really does suffer for his art.