Buonagurio studied at the City College of New York and graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. In 1971, she received a Master's degree in Arts and Education from the same institution. Her works have won numerous awards and accolades, one from the New York State Arts Council and five Bronx Recognition Awards from the Bronx Arts Council. Buonagurio has hosted 25 solo exhibitions at international museums, art centers and galleries. Her works have been included in more than 200 collective exhibitions worldwide and have been featured on the cover of the Ceramic Monthly. Inspired by popular culture for nearly four decades, she has created colorful and gorgeous ceramic sculptures.