Marian Painting

Born in Aberdeen in 1979, Gordon Napier had a love of drawing from an early age. This, coupled with experimentation with painting, continued through his schooling in Buckinghamshire and his joint Degree in Art and History at the University of Worcester, Worcestershire, UK.

Also a writer and something of a historian, Gordon is the author and illustrator of The Rise and Fall of the Knights Templar: The Order of the Temple, 1118-1314 , a True History of Faith, Glory Betrayal and Tragedy (Spellmount, 2003, Available from and in bookshops). A painting of his also became the cover design. Gordon has also written several articles on medieval topics for Templar History Magazine. One issue has also contained an interview about his artwork. His Crusader themed prints are among the items sold at the store at


Gordon has progressed as a painter, usually using oil paint on board, though he has experimented with other media including digital art. In his work, besides historical and romantic themes, Gordon has an interest in the human figure and much of his painted output incorporates this. His female figures at their best are graceful and enigmatic and expressive of emotion. Examples of Gordons work have featured in galleries and exhibitions, as well as in private collections in the UK and beyond.