The Biennial of Art and Culture of Sao Tome and Principe began in 1995 because of João Carlos Silva dream and perseverance. Organized by the Cultural Association Biennial of Sao Tome and Principe, with the purpose of promoting the artistic community of Sao Tome and Principe and its connection with the world. After a break of seven years the second edition had place in 2002. But it's in 2008, on its fifth edition, that the Biennial faced a turning point and resized its objectives.

If the V Biennial was to "Share Territories", promoting knowledge, dialogue and openness in various areas and latitudes, the VI Biennial will focus on "Heritage(s)" to enable and enrich territories as well as to consolidate the shared beginnings.

The VI edition will happen between 1 November and 30 November 2011, being the second moment of the project started in 2008, and that established a time of consolidation and affirmation of the biennial, with the curatorial orientation of Adelaide Ginga.

The VI Biennial programme includes an international exhibition of contemporary visual arts Heritage(s) - encounters and intersections, based on artistic residences; a exhibition centred on the architectural heritage - Roças of Sao Tome and Príncipe; and Roça Língua a project about portuguese linguistic universe and heritage.

Alongside there will be other cultural activities, conferences, a documentary and film cycle about Africa and its heritage(s), a homage to the artist Almada Negreiros, two projects of photography in public spaces about Tchiloli, workshops and educational ateliers, as well as entertainment events that value traditional performing arts.

The Biennial aims to confirm Sao Tome and Principe in the international cultural community, placing special emphasis in the articulation with the African countries of Central and Southern region and, in particular, its relation to the CPLP (community of portuguese-language countries).