Responding to the furore over the sculpture, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council insisted social media can ‘amplify’ negative viewpoints.

The 1.5 metre high bronze sculpture showcases Dali’s enduring melting clocks motif.

The works have gone on display at the Culloden Estate and Spa in Co Down.

The sculpture was created to help Nairn Floors promote its products in the 1970s.

Artist Paddy Campbell – the former owner of Dublin’s famous Bewley’s Cafe – said it was “a tremendous honour”.

Director of the National Sculpture Factory, Valerie Byrne chats to AISLING MEATH about how their artists and sculptors have navigated the past two years