WHEN Channel Seven's Great South East goes to air on Sunday, August 3, the region can expect an influx of Queenslanders eager to discover the Sunshine Coast's arts and culture scene.

Sunshine Coast Council's Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said she was delighted to hear the 2014 Sunshine Coast Art Prize had attracted the program's attention.

"Laurel Edwards, the presenter, could see the potential of the Sunshine Coast being a preferred arts and culture destination," Cr McKay said.

"Laurel was treated to a personal viewing at the Caloundra Regional Gallery of some of the outstanding artworks which have been named as finalists in the prestigious 2014 Sunshine Coast Art Prize.

"The crew then made its way up to Maleny to visit Arley Farm, which is offering one of the enticing prizes of the Sunshine Coast Art Prize - a two-week residency.

"They also visited renowned Flaxton artist Miles Allen, a previous winner of the Art Prize, and Maleny artist Joanne Turner's Studio 33.''