Camera Ready Crew: Nat Geo’s Warren Carlyle, Dr. Chelsea “The OctoGirl” Bennice & artist Chris Adams bring octopus merch, art & surprises to Aquashella NJ!
Founder Warren Carlyle — National Geographic contributor to the bestselling book Secrets of the Octopus — joins octopus researcher Dr. Chelsea “The OctoGirl” Bennice and artist Chris Adams for science, art, and a can’t-miss sparkling strawberry squid costume — perfect for photo & video coverage (attached below!)
OctoNation, the World’s Largest Octopus Fan Club, is making waves at Aquashella New Jersey, coming September 6–7, 2025, to the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center. Founder Warren Carlyle, National Geographic contributor to the best selling book Secrets of the Octopus — will be joined by science advisor Dr. Chelsea “The OctoGirl” Bennice (who will appear in her bedazzled strawberry squid costume), and legendary artist Chris Adams, OctoNation’s Creative Director, who will be signing exclusive octopus prints. Together, they bring OctoNation’s mission of inspiring wonder of the ocean to life for families, ocean lovers, and curious minds of all ages.
“From Michael B. Jordan to Dr. Andrew Huberman, OctoNation’s content has been engaged with by celebrities and curious minds alike. With more than half a billion views on our educational videos this past year, it’s clear the world is fascinated by octopuses, and that’s exciting for the future of our oceans!,” said Warren Carlyle, OctoNation Founder.
Held from Saturday, September 6 (10 a.m.–6 p.m.) through Sunday, September 7 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.), Aquashella is the largest aquarium marketplace in America founded by popular YouTuber George Mavrakis, featuring top-tier freshwater, saltwater, reptile, and aquatic art vendors. Attendees can shop, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy speaker sessions, charity raffles, kids’ activities, and live streaming influencer zones! Tickets are available at Aquashella.com
OctoNation will be featured on the festival floor on both days, offering an unforgettable blend of education, art, and interactive fun. Visitors can expect on-site appearances, Q&A with octopus experts, Chris Adams signing exclusive octopus prints, and Warren Carlyle speaking on stage in a giant inflatable octopus costume. After winning “Most Festive Booth” at Aquashella Dallas, the question is: what will OctoNation do to win again this year?
OctoNation’s Mission
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, OctoNation is dedicated to inspiring wonder of the ocean through collaborations with scientists, educators, and artists. With more than 1 million followers across its social media platforms and over half a billion views on their content this past year, OctoNation continues to build a global community fascinated by cephalopods. At Aquashella New Jersey, the organization extends that mission into a hands-on environment– bridging art, science, and community in unexpected ways. Attendees from all ages and backgrounds are invited to meet the team, learn about octopus biology and conservation, and take home signed artworks that celebrate cephalopod fascination.
About OctoNation
OctoNation® is the world’s largest octopus fan club and a registered nonprofit organization (501(c)(3)) dedicated to inspiring wonder of the ocean by educating the world about octopuses. Through educational resources, art, community outreach events, and partnerships with scientists and media, OctoNation celebrates the intelligence, beauty, and exploration of one of the ocean’s most captivating creatures!
