Oldenburg — there are journeys that begin with a destination in mind, and those that evolve into something far more meaningful along the way. My recent trip to Germany became exactly that — a journey across cities, but also through history, art, family and reflection.

My Germany-based cousin April Grace mentioned that paintings by Filipino masters Juan Luna and Malang could possibly be found somewhere in northwestern Germany. That conversation immediately stirred my curiosity. How did works by two of the Philippines’ most celebrated artists find their way here? And where exactly were they? Since arriving, I have been on a mission to find them.