Steven is a frequent guest speaker at Bay Area historical societies, museums, groups and antiques clubs. He's delivered programs about subjects as varied as American art pottery, glass, jewelry, holiday collectibles, ocean liner memorabilia, silver and postcards.
Steven Wayne Yvaska was born in Boston and became a collector by age nine. He graduated cum laude from Syracuse University where he began to delve into the decorative arts. He completed his Master's degree in Environmental Science and studied with experts including Dr. Charles Ryder Dibble, Sally Kinsey, Ed Fricke, and Bruce Havens. Over the years Steven developed a deep interest in American silver, the topic of his graduate thesis.
He's taught classes on antiques for the Morgan Hill Adult Education program and the San Jose Southside Community Center. Mr. Yvaska has also presented lectures at a number of colleges and universities. He appears regularly at Home and Garden shows, antique fairs and shows, as well as benefit events sponsored by several charities.
Mr. Yvaska enjoys sharing his time and knowledge in his community. For his service to the Thrift Box resale shop in San Jose - an arm of the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital - he received the 2004 Children's Champion Award. He's been granted honorary lifetime membership in numerous civic and social groups including the Alliance League and the Los Altos Glass and Decorative Arts Club.
Mr. Yvaska may be best-known for his columns on antiques for the San Jose Mercury News. His work is often reprinted in professional newsletters, journals and bulletins.