I would have preferred to attempt a sharp bend to reduce height and accentuate "struggle". So would have kept as much foliage as possible for the trees health. Then looked at the best option going forward. You can always create a bunjin with the little bit that is left in the end.So this tree was posted on a facebook bonsai group. I said i thought personally that this tree was done a terrible disservice and really couldn't understand the process. Please give your opinions of this work. Thanks - trying to see the difference in opinion that maybe I can't see.
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IMO, this tree isn't "ruined" unless it dies.
Style-wise, I actually like what was done. I'm not usually a fan of "literati"/"bunjin" style but this tree tells me a believable story of a hard life followed by just enough sun and water and calm winds to make a go at surviving. Life finds a way. Dr. Malcolm would approve. It's hard to tell at this level of zoom, but I might have turned the remaining foliage to lay more horizontally. maybe.
Horticulturally, I hope the owner knows how to (and will) provide appropriate after-care.
I'm curious, @choppychoppy, what would you have preferred to see done?