The invention relates to an at least single-layer flat EL luminous system based on at least one inorganic thick-film AC-electroluminescent (EL) element having at least two electrically conducting flat electrodes, wherein at least one of the two flat electrodes is largely transparent and the at least two electrodes have a graphically configured contour and an EL emission takes place only in those regions in which two corresponding electrodes overlap and an EL layer is arranged between two corresponding electrodes and the EL emission in the overlapping electrode regions has a different emission colour and, by operating the at least one EL element with at least one alternating voltage, an EL luminous system corresponding to the graphical configuration of the at least two flat electrodes is thus obtained.A process for the production of an at least single-layer flat EL luminous system is further described, and its use as a lamp, as an advertising object, as an artistic structure and the like is mentioned