Sue Bergin is Chair of the Board of Trustees at Anteros Arts Foundation in Norwich, which recently announced Big Issue founder Lord John Bird MBE as its first Patron. Ahead of a special fundraising talk next month, Sue explains more
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m Sue Bergin, the Chair to the Board of Trustees, Volunteer Coordinator and very “hands-on” at the moment as we work to cover some gaps in the operation. Anteros Arts Foundation supports over 20 artists with affordable individual and shared studios, and hires out an array of delightful spaces for weddings, meetings, workshops, parties, photoshoots and more. Without Arts Council funding or the like, our small hard-working team of part-time staff work with a dedicated team of volunteers to help on the reception & shop, usher for events, support the exhibition coordinator with installations and help maintain this remarkable characterful Grade II* listed building.
How long have you been involved with Anteros and how would you describe the Arts Foundation to those not in the know?
I’ve been a volunteer with Anteros since October 2023, so two years. Anteros is a registered charity, an arts creative space which is often found to be a pleasant surprise for someone who’s never visited before. Full of surprises as you realise how much is going on at any one time from classes, exhibitions and performances to a wedding! It often punches above its weight with touring performers such as nationally acclaimed performance poet, John Hegley and musicians, Mishra. It’s also a great place to buy locally produced artwork and greetings cards.
What is your background? Are you Norwich born and raised?
I’ve worked for Lloyds Bank in branch banking and Head Office, but much preferred my time at Sustrans in Bristol as the Supporters’ Secretary which was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. The National Cycle Network expanded dramatically in my time I was there, and I was privileged to work with some incredible people such as John Grimshaw, CBE and Carol Freeman, a skilled fundraiser originally with Friends of the Earth. I was born in Dorset and grew up in Bristol. My brother got his Modern Languages degree at the UEA, but I didn’t really know this side of the country until my husband and I cycle-toured through it in 1999. We came back to live in Beccles for some 13 years running an eco-friendly B&B but longed to live in Norwich, which we now enjoy very much. A bit worried about NCFC at the moment but who wouldn’t be!!
Do you think it is a particularly creative city?
Norwich strikes me as one of the most creative cities besides Bristol that I’ve ever known or visited. It’s vibrant, cultural and has a great creative heart.
What does it mean to have Lord John Bird MBE as first ever patron for Anteros?
To have Lord John Bird endorse our project is very special to us. We have all got to know John as he’s a current studio holder and his sense of humour, friendly and relaxed manner is a joy. We all feel that what John has achieved in his lifetime for the homeless, is massively important and without his work as co-founding the Big Issue, who knows what would have happened? His endless passion and drive is staggering as he travels off to the House of Lords three times a week and still champions for the homeless. Ceaseless, focused and determined. We have a great respect for him as an accomplished artist, campaigner and wonderful spokesperson for so many good causes. With the respect that John commands, we feel it’s an absolute privilege for him to agree to support us as our first Patron and in so doing, helping us to raise our profile as an organisation that often goes under the radar for many people.
What are your hopes and dreams for Anteros?
Anteros is a wonderful community-based place to work, volunteer, perform, shop, be inspired, attend a class, sell locally produced art, exhibit art, get married and much more so I would love to see this remarkable and quirky old building which copes just about in 21st Century, exist long into the future. It supports a fantastic community so planning and shaping its future is all-important.
An Afternoon with Lord John Bird MBE at Anteros Arts (7-15 Fye Bridge St, Norwich NR3 1LJ) takes place on Sunday 23 November, 2025, from 3-5pm, in the Main Gallery (Seated), when the founder of The Big Issue and life peer will talk about his remarkable life: from growing up homeless in the slums of Notting Hill and spending time in reform institutions, to discovering art, becoming a professional printer and father, and ultimately founding The Big Issue. This special event will raise funds for Anteros Arts Foundation (Charity No. 1135692). Visit anterosfoundation.com for tickets (£10 each).
Featured image of Sue Bergin – supplied
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