A light conductive controlled shape droplet display device of the invention includes a light source. A light conductive substrate receives and conducts light from the light source. A cover disposed relative to the substrate, conducts light received from the substrate out and away from the display device. Pixels in the display are defined by fluid droplets in optical communication with the substrate and the cover. Hydrophobic layers associated with the substrate and the cover control the shape of the fluid droplet in conjunction with properties of the fluid droplet. Persistent displays are possible, as are displays that require periodic refresh to maintain the display. Electrodes modulate the amount of light conducted by the fluid droplets from the substrate into the cover. In preferred embodiments, each pixel includes sub-pixels formed by different primary colored fluid droplets.