Alicia Eggert, assistant professor of studio arts, wanted to create a sign in which a lightbulb represented every country in the world -- and the bulb could be turned on and off to show whether the country is at peace or in conflict.

The Future, co-created with artist Safwat Saleem with assistance from Fine Acts, an organization that promotes contemporary art with purpose, was expanded to include other human rights issues.

It was named a finalist of Fast Company's premiere World Changing Ideas Awards in the photography/visualization category. The awards honor projects that offer innovative solutions to the issues facing humanity.