Tiny artworks made by a world-renowned micro-sculptor are to go on display in his home city, giving a cash boost to local literacy and learning initiatives.

Part of the proceeds from the exhibition of pieces handcrafted by Willard Wigan will support community programmes operated by the Library of Birmingham.

The 57-year-old artist first became interested in micro-sculpture aged five when he began making houses for ants because he thought they needed somewhere to live.

Having been described by experts as “the eighth wonder of the world”, Wigan’s works are so minute that they are only visible through a microscope.

Each piece commonly sits within the eye of a needle, or on a pinhead, and is crafted between heartbeats, allowing the self-taught artist to reduce hand tremors.

The Birmingham-born sculptor was awarded an MBE for services to art in 2007, and is also a patron of the £189 million Library of Birmingham, which opened in September 2013.

Commenting ahead of the exhibition, which begins at the library on January 11, the artist said: “As a child, I escaped into a fantasy world.

“Now local children have the Library of Birmingham on their doorstep, with free access to millions of stories to fuel their imaginations. Literacy and learning initiatives can support, encourage, challenge and enhance them, whatever their abilities. These initiatives are even more important in Birmingham where literacy levels are among the lowest in the country.

“I became a patron of the Library of Birmingham Trust so that, whatever a child’s background or ability, there will be a chance for them to be original and creative, to make their mark on the world.”