A Dilton Marsh artist who boasts a movie star fan has transformed Lacock Abbey into a land of floating fairies and pensive monks as part of a new exhibition.

On Saturday, work by Derek Kinzett, 45, from his Inner Spirit Collection went on display at the abbey. Nine lifesize pieces made from galvanised wire mesh including a cyclist, a gardener, and a Harley Davidson motorbike can all be found on the abbey’s grounds.

The feedback from visitors has been positive and follows interest from Hollywood star Nicolas Cage.

The film star spotted the artist’s work on his website and Mr Kinzett said: “I’ve been commissioned by Nicolas Cage, who was a fan of my sculptures, which was all very surreal. It has been a long, hard slog to get where I am today, but I’m just very happy with how things are going at the minute.”

Mr Kinzett, who studied sculpting at Trowbridge Technical College, added: “The feedback I’ve received so far has been really positive. In the first two days of the exhibition there were around 1,500 visitors which was fantastic and everyone seemed interested.

“I think my work has been really complimented by the venue and I think my work can be best appreciated in wide open spaces.”

This is Mr Kinzett’s first exhibition at Lacock Abbey and his work is also gaining plaudits worldwide.

Mr Kinzett, winner of the Peoples’ Prize at the 2010 Showborough House Sculpture Exhibition, has also been commissioned to create a piece for the 2012 Olympic Games .

On average it takes Mr Kinzett three weeks to make his wire pieces.

Staff at Lacock Abbey said that the exhibition, which runs until March 4, has received great feedback from visitors.

Rachael Holtom, visitor experience officer at Lacock Abbey, said: “This is a great display of art in a fantastic setting. Our early spring flowers and the crispness of the weather really compliment Derek’s work. It is the first art show of this type at the abbey and hopefully it will not be the last.”

Normal admission rates apply with National Trust members.

Call 01249 730 459 or visit www.national trust.org.uk/ Lacock.

or visit www.derek