A former jazz musician, Len Detlor (1941-2008) started to explore painting in the last decade of his life. His paintings were exhibited at the Chocolate Factory in Long Island City, in open studio exhibits and in organizational spaces.

As a painter, Detlor was primarily self-taught, the work developing gradually over a period of several years. The paintings are influenced primarily by mid-20th century American painters.

For many years, Detlor worked as a musician and composer, performing on saxophones and flute in contemporary improvised music — both jazz and new music — and creating music for dance. Following his performing career, he worked at New York City's Department of Cultural Affairs, administering grants to the city's cultural community.

Detlor studied music at the Berklee College of Music in Boston; he received a BA in Literature and Philosophy from American University in Washington, D.C.