Dramatic imagery of red-tailed black cockatoos, galahs and sulphur-crested cockatoos whirling around in water mist forms the basis of the National Film and Sound Archive’s newest show, Temple, opening to the public on Friday.

The brainchild of Australian artists Leila Jeffreys and Melvin J. Montalban, it was initially shown outdoors, near Circular Quay, as part of  Vivid 2022.

Now, remounted in the dark Art Deco halls of the NFSA, it is an entirely new experience.

Slow-motion visuals play across towering screens, while the installation also includes a shallow pool of still water which heightens the impact.

At the official opening night, CEO of the archive, Patrick McIntyre, described it as “funny and moving.”

Jeffreys, known for her photography of Australian birds, told those present, “we call it Temple because it’s like a temple of nature. You can feel the awe.”

Temple, National Film and Sound Archive until further notice. Free entry.