Rural landscapes have caught the eye of artists since time immemorial. But urban environments also have their own attraction, and the ever evolving cityscape of London, where old architecture sits side by side with new, offers countless subjects.

East Londoner Ron Pearce is one artist who has spent his life capturing the diverse scenery of the city; the factories, railway stations, houses and anything else that takes his fancy. He has shown how, when seen through an artist’s eyes, functional features such as slate roofs, Tarmac roads and walls can become things of beauty.

Next week, Ron brings his latest works to the Kenneth More Theatre. These acrylic paintings show how light conditions can transform ordinary urban landscapes into something more visually dramatic.

“Industrial buildings are the things that interest me most,” says Forest Gate-born Ron.

“I’ve used extreme light to make an effect on the work. A place can look average, but given the right light it can be transformed.”

Among the locations Ron has painted are stations including Mile End, Forest Gate and Chadwell Heath.

“In themselves they’re not interesting, but I’ve been able to make them quite interesting,” he says.

Ron likes the contrast of old and new, which he captured while painting in Rotherhithe.

“I love the juxtapositions between the old works and the new housing developments,” says Ron, who tells me he will also include some scenes from holidays in the exhibition.

Eighty-two-years-old “and still going strong”, Ron has lived in Chadwell Heath since 1952, having moved there from Ilford.

“I’ve painted since school,” he says. “I had a lot of encouragement from my master at school.”

Before retiring, Ron enjoyed a varied working life, including as a block-maker in the printing industry. A spell working for minicab and delivery companies allowed him to travel around London and gain inspiration.

“It gave me a chance to see places,” he says.

Ron, who names Edward Hopper and Jack Vettriano among artists that have inspired him, has exhibited at the Kenneth More Theatre for the past few years, and last year’s show was a sell-out.

“I was staggered,” he says. “I can’t grumble.”

Ron Pearce’s work will be on display from Tuesday, June 1 at the Kenneth More Theatre, Oakfield Road, Ilford. Details: 020 8553 4466, www.kmtheatre.co.uk