Sioni (John) Maileseni is a Tongan Kato Kafa weaver and coconut fibre artist.  Maileseni's art practice focuses on the fusion of traditional Tongan weaving methods, innovative design and exclusive use of (hand prepared and hand woven) coconut husk fibre to create his intricate basket and textile works.

The Coconut is known to the Pacific Islanders as the tree of life mainly because of its numerous uses – food source, fuel source, source of weaving fibre for brooms, mats, hats and baskets.  All of Maileseni's hand-made products are created mainly from the husk of the coconut (commonly known as coconut fibre) or coir and he is constantly innovating new ways to use the fibre.

Source: www.maketiples.com/2013-exhibiting-artists/de-sioni-john-maileseni/