Banksy-eque Images Have Street-Art Watchers Wondering

LONDON—London street-art watchers have a new mystery on their hands: whether newly stenciled images using superstar Banksy's signature chimps and rats were made by the artist himself, reports the Guardian.

The images, which appeared in small side streets overnight, urge viewers to "Vote Ken." Banksy recently donated £195,000 ($387,000) from a fund-raising auction to Ken Livingstone's mayoral campaign.

A group of West County art students have claimed the works as their own, saying they are a protest against Banksy's donation to the mainstream politician.

Some critics point out that the images lack the subtle humor and interaction with its surroundings typical of Banksy's work. The images have not appeared on the artist's Web site.