Before and after Juniper procumbens by Bjorn Bjorholm. The most obvious improvement is the foliage mass, but if you take a close look you see can many more changes, particularly the highlighting of the live vein (especially at the top of tree)

It’s time to revisit Bjorn Bjorholm one of our most talented young bonsai artists – many of whom, including Bjorn, apprenticed in Japan. The photos and quoted text in this post are from Bjorn’s blog

Before we go any further, do yourself a favor and take a look at Bjorn’s Advanced Bonsai Course. The price is right and if you take it, you and your bonsai will be happy you did

In Bjorn’s own words… “I’m often asked “How many trees do you think you’ve worked on over the years?” to which the only appropriate response is “I’ve lost count.”  There are a few trees, though, that I’ve had the privilege of designing that have stuck in my mind as stand-out examples – perhaps none more than the Juniper featured in this post.”
Continued below…

Before, a closer look

Bjorn, continued from above…
“Aside from the whimsical appearance of the trunkline, what is perhaps most interesting about this tree is that the foliage mass is fed entirely by the single, thin live vein that stretches upward to the highest point and abruptly cascades back down on itself.  In other words, the foliage mass is simply dangling at the bottom of that long, skinny branch.”

After. This one started as an amazing tree and now it's a highly refined amazing tree

Bjorn continued…
“After this particular styling, the tree was quickly purchased by one of our regular Kouka-en clients, who then maintained it for a couple of years at his garden before deciding that the foliage should be changed to Itoigawa Shimpaku via grafting – the process of which is currently underway.”

“Undoubtedly, this bonsai will be beautiful regardless of the foliage type, but I do have to say, I wish that the new owner had opted to keep the original procumbens foliage, as it adds a bit of uniqueness and character to the plant.  In any case, I think it’s quite obvious why this tree has remained in the back of my mind after so many years, and I look forward to seeing it again soon.”