hmm how about Yukishiro Tomoe from the Samurai X OVA? Nothing fancy, just have her standing holding her wisteria umbrella or something. Let me know if you want a reference picture. I'll pay you for your time of course.
Possible as a medium to large bonsai. Need to watch out for emerald ash borers. Difficult to style with it's compound leaves. I wouldn't recommend for a beginner but somebody with a lot of gardening experience could handle one as a potted plant I suppose.
I usually recommend finding a tree appropriate for your climate for easiest care. Evergreens are a good place to start. Rock Junipers, Chinese Elms and Ficus are good beginner plants. From there you can decide what styles/types you like best.
I usually recommend finding a bonsai that's appropriate to your climate for the easiest care. Evergreen bonsai usually fit the bill just fine and have that classic 'bonsai' aesthetic/look. Just a guess but I bet it was a Rock Juniper you liked.