The number and quality of art galleries that have opened in Toronto during the past 12 months is pretty astounding. With a few exceptions, we've seen new spaces to showcase contemporary art migrate west and north. galleryDK, Baitshop and Barbershop moved into Parkdale; and the venerable Mercer Union and the much-loved Toronto Free have brought instant credibility to the burgeoning art scene in Bloordale.

(Unfortunately the latter two's roots in Toronto predate 2008 and therefore didn't qualify to make this list)

Elsewhere, Kensington has re-emerged on the gallery map. No longer just a playground for performance-based art and graffiti, the neighbourhood's south Augusta stretch saw new-media oriented Pixel Gallery rejuvenate a dilapidated space back in November of 2007. A number of months later Hotshot (a combo gallery and cafe) unveiled its inaugural exhibition across the street.

From the Annex to the Distillery District, other areas of the city also got in on the action. Here's a rundown of 12 of the best galleries to open their doors in 2008.