© Channel 4
E4 drama Misfits, which recently picked up three nominations for the Broadcast Awards, was shortlisted for 'Best TV Drama'.
The show will compete against BBC One's Sherlock and Channel 4's This Is England 86.
Meanwhile, the 'Best Comedy' category recognises Alan Partridge's recent online series, the BBC Four show Getting On, and BBC Two's sitcom Rev.
The awards also include a 'Breakthrough' category, with one person from each field represented in the shortlist. Michelle Dockery, who recently played Mary in Downton Abbey, is the 'TV Drama' nominee. Greg Davies, who starred as Mr Gilbert in The Inbetweeners, will represent 'Comedy'.
Other fields celebrated at the awards include classical music, film, opera, popular music, dance, literature and theatre.
Melvyn Bragg, who will host the ceremony, said: "The shortlist demonstrates the extraordinary wealth of achievement across the arts in the UK. It is fantastic to see the arts flourishing - and there has certainly never been a more important moment to celebrate the breadth and range of talent across the country. We are delighted that we can continue to honour the dedication of these artists."
The 2011South Bank Sky Arts Awards will be held in London on January 25.
