Gusaroo,
You can paint the block without high temp paint make sure the block is super clean and like Don said use epoxy primer, it will stick.
In the early 80's I painted my motor an tranny on my Harley with laquer and the heavy red metal flake , looked good and stuck to the block for about 15 years . We had to bead blast it to get it off the block.
Check with a auto body supply shop and ask them what to use to prep the block , I'm sure they'll help you out.

Rocky